An accurate method of determining a single-plane osteotomy to correct a combined rotational and angular deformity

Abstract

Conventional osteotomy used for the correction of deformity is performed out of the plane of deformity creating a wedge either opening or closing when the deformity is corrected. Deformity that is a combination of rotation and angulation exists in a single plane that is oblique to the coronal, sagittal and axial planes depending on the magnitude of deformity measured in each plane. Accurate planning and a simple method of finding this oblique plane operatively is presented. This method starts by finding the bisector of angulation. This is marked by a wire that lies in the plane of angulation and along the bisector of angulation. The saw blade is rotated about this bisector axis according to the proportion of angulation and rotation. There is no second reorientation of the saw blade required making the final plane much easier to define. This single-plane oblique osteotomy allows accurate realignment of the limb.