Deformity correction
Genu recurvatum (back-knee)
Genu recurvatum is hyperextension of the knee on standing: the leg looks deformed in profile and knee loading rises over time. Causes include growth-plate injury, ligamentous laxity and post-traumatic bone deformity. Treatment realigns the bone in the sagittal plane.
Who it suits
- Recurvatum from post-traumatic or growth-plate bone deformity
- Pain or profile-appearance concerns
Technique highlights
- Sagittal-plane planning from standing radiographs
Surgical steps
- Assess the hyperextension angle and its source — bone or ligament.
- Realignment osteotomy and fixation.
- Physiotherapy to retrain muscle control around the knee.
Recovery & aftercare
- Weight-bearing is controlled to instruction until union is solid.
Risks & things to consider
- Bone lengthening is major surgery. Outcome and recovery time depend on bone quality, age, weight and how disciplined the patient is with rehabilitation, so identical results cannot be guaranteed.
- Daily physiotherapy is mandatory through both the lengthening and consolidation phases. Skipping it risks joint stiffness, muscle contracture or delayed bone healing.
- Disclose all medical conditions, regular medication, previous bone surgery and drug allergies at the consultation, and stop smoking before and after surgery as instructed — nicotine measurably slows bone healing.
Frequently asked questions
Does every case need surgery?
No. If it is purely ligamentous and symptom-free, strengthening physiotherapy comes first. When the cause is bony deformity with pain or clear malalignment, realignment surgery gives the durable result.
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