Proximal osteotomy of the tibia in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee.

A total of 50 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint treated by proximal osteotomy of the tibia were followed up 1-5 years after operation. Fusion occurred within an average of 24 weeks. The subjective result of the treatment was good or fair in 44/50 patients. The results were the same 1-2 years and 4-5 years postoperatively. Half the patients showed some significant general disease, most usually hypertension or cardiac disease. Although the patients' subjective condition was significantly better after than before operation, the treatment did not improve or maintain their working capacity. Preoperatively 29 patients worked, while this number was reduced to 12 at the time of follow-up, and two of the latter patients had been trained for new occupation.