Knee osteotomy is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with knee arthritis or deformities. Unlike total knee replacement, this surgery reshapes the bone to redistribute weight away from damaged areas, preserving the joint for as long as possible. It’s often recommended for younger, active patients or those with early-stage arthritis.
The goal of a knee osteotomy is to correct misalignment, such as bowleg (varus) or knock-knee (valgus) deformities, which can accelerate joint wear. By adjusting the angle of the knee, surgeons reduce pressure on the affected side, delaying the need for a knee replacement. This procedure has gained popularity due to its high success rates and ability to maintain natural joint movement.
If you're struggling with chronic knee pain but aren’t ready for a replacement, knee osteotomy might be the solution. This guide covers everything from candidacy to recovery, helping you make an informed decision.
Knee osteotomy is ideal for patients who experience localized knee pain due to uneven joint wear, typically caused by osteoarthritis or injury. The best candidates are:
Doctors assess candidacy through X-rays, MRIs, and physical exams to confirm alignment issues. Patients with severe arthritis, obesity, or ligament damage may need alternative treatments like partial/total knee replacement.
If your pain limits daily activities (walking, climbing stairs) but rest and physical therapy haven’t helped, consult an orthopedic surgeon to discuss osteotomy.
There are two primary types of knee osteotomy, targeting different parts of the joint:
Used for bowleg (varus) deformities, where the inner knee is damaged. The surgeon removes a wedge of bone from the tibia (shinbone) to shift weight outward. HTO is more common and has a 90% success rate in delaying knee replacement for 10+ years.
Addresses knock-knee (valgus) deformities, where the outer knee is affected. A wedge is removed from the femur (thighbone) to realign the joint. DFO is technically complex but effective for patients unsuited for HTO.
Both procedures use plates/screws to stabilize the bone during healing. Your surgeon will choose the method based on your anatomy and arthritis location.
A knee osteotomy typically takes 1–2 hours under general or spinal anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:
Most patients stay 1–2 nights in the hospital. Physical therapy starts immediately to restore mobility.
Surgeons minimize risks with advanced techniques and personalized rehab plans.
Recovery varies but generally follows this timeline:
Rehab tips: Attend all PT sessions, ice the knee daily, avoid smoking/alcohol, and follow your surgeon’s weight-bearing instructions.
| Procedure | Best For | Recovery Time | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knee Osteotomy | Young patients, early arthritis | 6–12 months | Natural joint preserved |
| Partial Knee Replacement | Localized late-stage arthritis | 3–6 months | Faster recovery |
| Total Knee Replacement | Severe arthritis | 12+ months | Complete pain relief |
Osteotomy is preferred for younger patients who want to stay active longer.
Studies show 85–90% of patients experience significant pain relief for 10+ years. Factors affecting success:
Long-term, some patients eventually need knee replacement, but osteotomy buys valuable time.
1. Is knee osteotomy painful?
Pain is managed with medications. Most patients report less pain than knee replacement.
2. How long until I can drive?
Typically 4–6 weeks, once you can bend your knee and stop pain meds.
3. Will I need hardware removal?
Plates/screws usually stay unless they cause discomfort (rare).