Etymed
osteotomy
Definition
surgical incision through bone
Clinical context
A 35-year-old runner presents with severe knee pain and mechanical symptoms despite conservative management. MRI reveals a significant meniscal tear with associated joint space narrowing. The orthopedic surgeon plans to perform a corrective osteotomy to realign the mechanical axis and shift weight away from the damaged compartment. The procedure involves making a precise surgical cut through the tibial bone to achieve proper alignment and reduce pain.
Mnemonic
Osteotomy = 'cutting bone' for proper alignment