Tibial Crest Osteotomy in Extensile Knee Exposure—A Modified, Low-Energy, Suture Technique

BackgroundTibial crest osteotomy is an established extensile knee approach. Complications include mal-union, non-union, and fixation problems.We have designed a technique aimed at reducing complications through the principles of low-energy osteotomy and suture repair.MethodsWe reviewed our clinical and radiological results in 159 consecutive patients 181 osteotomies with a mean age of 66 years, and an average follow up of 22 months.ResultsUnion occurred in all osteotomies (100%) at a mean period of 11 weeks. Proximal migration averaging 11.5 mm occurred in 6 osteotomies (3%). Crest fragmentation occurred in 11 osteotomies (6%), with all cases resulting in uncomplicated union. No extensor mechanism failure or complications related to the suture material occurred.ConclusionWe conclude that this technique results in satisfactory outcomes whilst avoiding hardware-related problems.