Focal cartilage defects of the lateral compartment do influence the outcome after high tibial valgus osteotomy

Introduction : High tibial medial open-wedge valgus osteotomy (HTO) is a well-established procedure for unicompartimental osteoarthritis of the young and active patient. However, influence cartilage defects lateral compartment on total outcome remains obscure. Methods From 2005 to 2012, 63 patients underwent HTO knee at single university orthopaedic center. Baseline data as well intraoperative findings, including grade location lesions, were evaluated retrospectively. Two groups formed regarding integrity tibiofemoral measured by Outerbridge score (group A: no defects, group B: mild moderate defects). Functional was assessed using Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), its five subscores. Results Comparing pre- postoperative data, we identified an overall benefit KOOS. Group A (no defects) showed increase in all KOOS subscores ( p = 0.00–0.01), whereas B (mild defects), only two revealed significant 0.03–0.04). There also statistically difference with higher values visit. Cartilage associated lower Discussion Mild humble after procedure. Thus, indication should be made very carefully if any degree degeneration present.