Deformity correction
Osteotomy for knee arthritis
When medial knee arthritis follows bowleg alignment, an osteotomy shifts load from the worn compartment to the healthier one, easing pain and deferring knee replacement. It suits younger patients whose joint still has usable cartilage.
Who it suits
- Medial compartment arthritis with bowleg alignment in younger patients
- Patients wanting to postpone total knee replacement
Technique highlights
- Preserves the native knee — no implant joint
- Addresses pain and leg shape together
Surgical steps
- Grade the joint wear and alignment on standing radiographs.
- Calculate the correction needed to shift the weight-bearing axis.
- Realignment osteotomy with internal fixation.
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee.
Recovery & aftercare
- Weight-bearing is increased progressively to instruction until union is complete.
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.
- Not suitable for whole-joint wear or older patients with extensive cartilage loss, where replacement may be the better option.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the correction last?
It depends on the existing wear, body weight and activity. The goal is pain relief and deferring replacement by years; suitability is assessed individually.
Other procedures in this area
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