Return to work after medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy

Abstract

BackgroundHigh tibial osteotomy (HTO) is frequently performed in young and physically active patients with knee medial compartment osteoarthritis and varus deformity. There is however, limited evidence on the function of patients after returning to work following HTO. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the return to work following medial opening-wedge HTO in our institution. MethodsPatients who underwent medial opening wedge HTO were identified and sent a questionnaire to assess their type of employment, as well as their return to work and function at work following surgery. Work related outcomes were assessed using the Workplace Activity Limitations Scale (WALS), whilst quality of life and satisfaction with surgery was assessed using the EQ-5D and Visual Analogue Scales (VAS). ResultsThere were 42 patients identified in the study. The mean time to return to work was 2.6 months, with 79% of patients returning to work by 3 months. The mean WALS score was 5.4 and the mean EQ-5D was 0.77. The mean VAS for quality of life was 77.9 and mean VAS for satisfaction with surgery was 58.3. In patients with light intensity physical jobs, however, mean satisfaction with surgery increased to 86. Survivorship of HTO was 93% in this series. ConclusionsMedial opening-wedge HTO is an effective treatment method for patients who are still in active employment. The majority of patients return to work within 3 months of surgery and demonstrate good function at work. Patient satisfaction with surgery, however, is higher in less physically demanding jobs.