Osteotomy

Healthy joints depend on an even distribution of force. When arthritis, injury or a natural alignment difference causes one side of a joint to carry more weight, cartilage can wear down unevenly. You may be a candidate for realignment surgery if you have: 

• Pain and limited motion from early arthritis affecting one side of a joint
• Bowlegged or knock-kneed alignment that increases joint stress
• A fracture that healed out of proper alignment
• Joint deformities causing uneven weight-bearing
• Persistent knee or hip pain, stiffness or swelling after activity
• A desire to remain active and postpone or avoid joint replacement 

Our orthopedic specialists complete a thorough evaluation of your bone structure, joint health and activity level to determine whether osteotomy is the right approach for you. 

Before recommending surgery, we complete a detailed assessment that may include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, X-rays and MRI or CT imaging. We'll walk you through the findings and discuss the following options: 

• Nonsurgical management: Activity modification, bracing, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment may help ease symptoms in early stages or support a joint before surgery is needed.
• Knee osteotomy: Your surgeon reshapes the upper tibia (shinbone) or lower femur (thighbone) to shift pressure away from damaged cartilage and toward healthier areas of the joint.
• Hip osteotomy: Bone realignment around the hip joint helps correct uneven weight-bearing caused by structural differences or prior injury.
• Ankle osteotomy: Realignment around the ankle can relieve pressure from deformities or old fractures that healed out of position. 

During surgery, your orthopedic surgeon carefully cuts and repositions a section of bone, then secures it with plates, screws or other small medical devices while it heals. Advanced imaging and computer-assisted planning allow for precise correction, and minimally invasive techniques may reduce disruption to surrounding tissue.

Healing after osteotomy takes time and commitment. Recovery generally includes: 

• Several weeks of crutches or a walker while the bone heals
• Gradual increases in weight-bearing, guided by follow-up imaging and physical therapy progress
• A structured rehabilitation program to restore range of motion, rebuild strength and improve joint stability
• A return to low-impact activities within a few months for many patients, with continued improvement over the first year 

Your care team monitors your progress closely throughout recovery, adjusting your rehabilitation plan as needed to support safe, steady healing. 

As with any surgery, osteotomy carries some risks, which may include infection, blood clots, delayed bone healing or stiffness in the joint. Your orthopedic surgeon will review your individual risk factors, answer your questions and explain how your care team works to minimize complications before, during and after surgery. Feeling informed and prepared is an important part of your care plan.