Osteotomy: A Case Study in Orthopedic Medicine
Loading...
Authors
Dube, Matthew
Issue Date
1997
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The knee appears to be an insecure joint between the two longest bones in the body, it is subject to much leverage; articular surfaces are poorly confruent and range of motion is limited. Nevertheless, the powerful ligaments and strong muscles concerned make it one of the strongest joints. Many muscles have direct attachments to the fibrous capsule. Traumatic dislocation is rare. Injuries of a meniscus are, however, common, resulting in twisting strains applied to the knee when slightly or fully turned. Damage
may be a complete tear across the full width, a partial split extending from the
free border or a longitudinal tear within the cartilage; Occasionally its periphery is detached from the capsule.(Williams 533) Injuries to cruciate ligaments are also common, ranging from strain to rupture. The anterior is more commonly affected. Damage to the posterior collateral ligament is less common, since excessive strain is likely only in full extension.(Williams 533) The patella, commonly referred to as the "knee cap", and its tendon transmit power from the quadriceps to the lower leg. Normally, as the knee bends, the patella slides smoothly along a groove in the femur. However, under certain conditions the patella may experience forces which push it
against the sides of the groove, causing pain. Additionally, inflammation and
roughening of the smooth underside of the patella may occur. Collectively, this process is referred to as patellofemoral syndrome.(Wheeless 198) Throughout the development of medicine, several surgical techniques have been developed in order to preserve proper function for such a complex joint. In 1835, Fogn Rhea Barton of Philadelphia introduced the concept of osteotomy, removing a supracondylar wedge from the femur to correct a severe flexion ankylosis of the knee. Without the benefits of anesthesia, antibiotics, or internal fixation, the five minute procedure was nevertheless
successful. The subsequent evolution of antiseptic and anesthetic techniques
has made surgical treatment safer. The development of fixation devices,
combined with advances in metallurgy and an understanding of biomechanics, has made osteotomy the treatment of choice for many congenital and acquired deformities. A successful outcome depends on careful planning and execution of the procedure.(Chapman 783}
Description
44 p.
Citation
Publisher
Kalamazoo, Mich. : Kalamazoo College.
License
U.S. copyright laws protect this material. Commercial use or distribution of this material is not permitted without prior written permission of the copyright holder. All rights reserved.