Effects of high tibial osteotomy on walking

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the preoperative and postoperative gait analyses of patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy and to investigate the effects of high tibial osteotomy on walking. Method: The prospective observational study was conducted between February 2023 and August 2023. Gait analysis before and after high tibial osteotomy was performed in 22 patients, especially 40 years of age and older, who underwent medial open wedge osteotomy for medial knee osteoarthritis at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital Orthopedics and Traumatology Clinic. The data were obtained by using the patient identification form, Oxford Knee Score pain scale form for pre- and post-procedure pain score evaluation, and patient follow-up form prepared in line with the literature in routine follow-up of patients. In the statistical evaluation, Wilcoxon test, which is a non-parametric test in test repeat tests, Mann Whitney U test was performed in independent groups and z values were taken, Spearman rho Correlation analysis was performed in cases where the effects of pre- and post-tests were examined. Results: In the analysis of basic gait parameters before and after high tibial osteotomy; The mean of total stride length score in the postoperative period compared to the preop period was statistically significant (preop=28.14±3.27; postop=33.23±4.47), the total step time was significant compared to the preop poststop period (preop=2047.23±952.60, postop=1547.77±484.01), and the mean of cadence score was statistically significant in the postop period (preop=68.77±20.71, postop=82.55±12.86). While the mean of walking speed score increased in the postoperative period (preop=1.14±.58, postop=2.05±.63), the mean of walking time score was statistically significant in the preop period (preop=5.25±.26, postop=5.11±.21). In conclusion when the findings of our study are examined, it is examined how the procedure after high tibial ostetomy will provide changes in basic walking parameters and it is thought that with positive changes in parameters, walking can be normalized and the quality of life of the individual can be improved. Keywords: High tibial osteotomy, medial open wedge, gait analysis