Better clinical results after closed- compared to open-wedge high tibial osteotomy in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus leg alignment

50 patients with medial knee osteoarthritis and varus leg alignment were randomized to either closed-wedge or open-wedge high tibial osteotomy. The purpose of this prospective follow-up study was to compare the mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes of the two techniques. Findings indicated that patients undergoing a closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy reported more favourable clinical outcomes in VAS satisfaction and WOMAC pain and stiffness when compared to the open-wedge group over an average of 7.9 years.