Possible Complications
Like all surgery, osteotomies are not without possible complications. In order to minimize the likelihood of a clot (deep vein thrombosis) heparin is administered daily. Local complications such as bleeding and infection are possible. Another possible complication is damage to the nerve that pulls up the foot (peroneal nerve). There is a small possibility that the bone could take longer than expected to fuse or even that it will not fuse at all, necessitation further surgery and bone grafts. The plate used for fixing the bone lies just beneath the skin and often causes irritation of the overlaying soft tissue. It may also restrict the range of movement of the knee. It is therefore usually necessary to remove the plate 6 months after surgery. This is a small procedure and requires an overnight stay in hospital.