Knee Osteotomy

A Knee Osteotomy is a surgical procedure performed on the tibia (shin bone) or the femur (thigh bone) to realign the joint and reduce pain in the affected area. The purpose of this operation is to redirect body weight away from the painful, damaged part of the bone to a healthier section of the knee.

At New Victoria Hospital, our highly experienced Orthopaedic Consultants specialise in private Knee Osteotomy surgery. They offer a swift diagnosis and the highest standard of care to ensure every patient enjoys a quick and lasting recovery.

When is a Knee Osteotomy Required?

It is a procedure commonly used to reduce the impact of Osteoarthritis where the knee joint’s articular cartilage becomes worn down and rough and a patient experiences degenerative changes within the knee. This can lead to pain, stiffness and swelling, making the joint difficult to use smoothly. A knee osteotomy procedure will reduce pain and help stop any further complications.

The procedure may also be offered to patients who suffer from developmental alignment issues in the knee, especially if this could lead to further complications down the line. This can include patients who are born with knock knees, bowlegs or have an injury or disease which has altered the position or structure of the knee, in turn leading to a weight displacement that can wear down specific parts of the knee joint. A knee osteotomy can help restore a more normal alignment of the knee so a patient can enjoy a better quality of life.

What Does Private Knee Osteotomy Surgery Involve?

The purpose of a Knee Osteotomy is to redistribute weight in the knee by realigning the bones in the joint. A cut will be made in the tibia bone, femur bone, or both in more severe cases, to create a gap to readjust the alignment of the leg. A metal plate is then used to hold the gap open and is then attached in place with screws. This will hold the bone in place until it grows into the new position.

This is considered a major operation done under general anaesthetic. It will take roughly 1-2 hours to complete and patients will be required to stay overnight after the operation for observation and recovery.

Your surgeon will perform a knee arthroscopy (keyhole operation) preceding the Knee Osteotomy to review the joint and check your condition. If you are given the all-clear, then a Knee Osteotomy will follow shortly after.

Recovery and Aftercare

The knee will take around 6 months to completely heal. During this time you will be asked not to put weight on your operated leg. Crutches will be supplied to ensure movement is still possible. After 2 weeks you may be allowed to bear weight back on the operated leg (although this can change depending on your recovery progress).

Post-procedure, you'll be provided with a detailed physiotherapy guideline. Your Consultant will give you the required rehabilitation exercises, pain management, and wound care needed to swiftly recover after the operation. They will also book you in for necessary follow-up appointments to review the bone healing process and assess your rehabilitation progress.

Knee Osteotomy procedures at New Victoria Hospital

At New Victoria, our highly skilled Orthopaedic surgeons are extremely experienced in diagnosing and treating a range of knee-related conditions, including those that require a knee osteotomy. When you stay with us here at New Victoria Hospital, our leading Knee Consultants will thoroughly discuss your treatment options before creating an effective treatment plan for your condition.

We pride ourselves on offering unrivalled patient care in our exceptional facilities. Delivering the best outcomes for our patients following surgery so they can recover quickly and return to their daily lives.