TCVO FOR KNEE JOINT PRESERVATION
TCVO, or Tibial Closing Wedge Osteotomy, is a surgical procedure performed on the tibia (shinbone) to address certain knee joint conditions, particularly for joint preservation. This procedure is often considered in cases where there is malalignment of the lower limb, leading to increased stress on one side of the knee joint. TCVO is a type of osteotomy, a surgical procedure involving the cutting and reshaping of bones.
Procedure
Preparation :- The patient is typically placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Incision :- A surgical incision is made on the side of the tibia to access the bone.
Bone Cut :- A carefully planned cut is made in the tibia, usually in the form of a wedge-shaped removal of bone, allowing the surgeon to adjust the alignment of the leg.
Repositioning :- The cut section of the tibia is repositioned to correct the alignment of the lower limb. The adjustment aims to redistribute weight-bearing forces more evenly across the knee joint.
Fixation :- To maintain the corrected alignment, the repositioned bone is often stabilized using plates, screws, or other fixation devices.
Closure :- After the necessary adjustments are made, the incision is closed with stitches or staples.
Indications for TCVO
Unicompartmental Osteoarthritis :- When osteoarthritis primarily affects one compartment of the knee joint, particularly on the inner or outer side.
Varus Deformity :- Varus alignment, where the knee bows inward, leading to increased stress on the inner side of the joint.
Malalignment Issues :- Conditions causing abnormal alignment that affects joint function and stability.
Joint Preservation :- TCVO is considered a joint preservation technique as it aims to redistribute forces and potentially delay the progression of arthritis.
Advantages of TCVO
Preservation of Joint :- TCVO aims to preserve the natural knee joint by redistributing weight-bearing forces.
Delay of Joint Replacement :- By correcting the alignment and redistributing forces, TCVO can potentially delay the need for total knee replacement surgery.
Improved Symptoms :- Patients often experience relief from pain and improved function following a successful TCVO.
