Femoral osteotomy

An osteotomy of the thigh bone (femur) may be indicated in patients with excessive valgus (knocked knee) alignment of the knee and pain on the outside of the knee from overload.

The aim of the operation is to change the plumb line of the leg so that it does not put as much force and pressure on the painful part of the knee.

There will be a scar on the front of the knee, the bone is fixed internally with a plate and screws which are able to hold the osteotomy in place while it heals. The metal work will normally have to be removed after the bone has healed at around 12-18 month post op.

The operation normally requires a general or spinal anaesthetic and one night stay in hospital. You can weight bear fully on the leg post operatively but with the aid of elbow crutches. The normal recovery time to full function is in the region of 12 weeks.