[Upper tibial osteotomy for gonarthrosis in geriatric patients (author's transl)].

In gonarthrosis with unicompartmental prevalence showing either varus or valgus deformity a correction of the leg-axis is indicated even at old age. The upper transcondylar osteotomy is technically simple and easely tolerated. Weight bearing of the operated leg should be avoided during 6 weeks. A follow-up study of 78 patients aged 70 and more years was performed at an average time of 3 years postoperatively. A good pain releave was found in 78% and an objective improvement in walking capacity in 73%. It is the autors impression that tibial osteotomy has a better prognosis than endoprostetic replacement.