Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping bones. Like any surgery, it carries some inherent risks. However, the level of risk depends on several factors, including the specific type of osteotomy being performed, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's experience.
Potential Risks of Osteotomy:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery.
- Nerve damage: The nerves surrounding the bone being operated on can be damaged, leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness.
- Nonunion: This is a complication where the bone doesn't heal properly after the surgery.
- Malunion: This is a complication where the bone heals in an incorrect position, leading to pain, deformity, and limited mobility.
- Delayed union: This is a complication where the bone takes longer than expected to heal.
- Osteonecrosis: This is a condition where the bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply.
Minimizing Risks:
- Choosing an experienced surgeon: A surgeon with extensive experience performing osteotomies can help reduce the risk of complications.
- Following pre-operative instructions: This includes things like stopping smoking and avoiding certain medications.
- Maintaining good hygiene: This is important to reduce the risk of infection.
- Following post-operative instructions: This includes things like keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments.
It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of osteotomy with your doctor before making a decision about whether or not to proceed with surgery.