European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoarthritis of the knee is a degenerative condition with a variety of treatment options like high tibial osteotomy (HTO), arthroscopic debridement, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. This study was conducted with an aim to assess the outcomes of individuals with Grade II and III medial compartment osteoarthritis treated with a proximal fibular osteotomy (PFO) to alleviate discomfort, improve medial joint space and function of the knee joint.
Methodology: From November 2019 to October 2021, 25 Patients aged 45 to 65 years with knee OA of grade II or III (Kellgren-Lawrence classification) involving the medial compartment of the knee were included and underwent proximal fibular osteotomy and were followed up. Preoperatively as well as postoperatively, the entire lower extremity radiographs were obtained to assess the alignment of the lower extremity and the ratio of the knee joint space (medial/lateral compartment), knee pain was assessed using a visual analogy scale and knee ambulation activities were assessed using the American Knee Society score.
Results: All patients experienced alleviation from medial knee discomfort postoperatively. Postoperative weight-bearing lower limb radiographs revealed an average increase in medial knee joint space. The mean preoperative AKSS improved from 43.92 to 63.88 till the last follow-up.
Conclusion: PFO is a safe, simple and effective procedure that significantly decreases knee discomfort. It also enhances the joint's radiographic appearance and functional outcome in patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis of the knee.