Distal Femoral Osteotomy Treatment

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain and dysfunction. As a weight bearing joint, the knee is prone to osteoarthritis, resulting in inflammation and damage to the cartilage. As osteoarthritis worsens, the joint can become stiff and painful. One possible treatment for knee pain caused by arthritis is distal femoral osteotomy, available through Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center in Miami, FL.

Osteoarthritis affects millions of people, often attacking the knee joints. Injuries to the knees in youth can result in arthritis later in life, as well as other factors such as repetitive wear and tear or genetics. As the cartilage wears away, the cushion between the knee bones is lost. Friction occurs when using the knee, causing more inflammation and pain.

There is no cure for arthritis, but there are treatments that can manage pain and slow the deterioration of the joint. When conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be the best option. Distal femoral osteotomy is one option that may reduce pain and improve function of the arthritic knee joint.

Osteoarthritis Knee Surgery

Many knee joints wear unevenly, with arthritis affecting one side more than the other. This may be due to a previous injury to the meniscus, bone or cartilage in the affected area. Removing pressure from the affected portion of the bone can help relieve pain and improve the function of the knee. This can be accomplished with distal femoral osteotomy.

During this surgery, the femur or tibia bone is cut and reshaped to relieve pressure on the damaged portion of the knee joint. This can transfer the weight to a healthier portion of the knee to minimize pain and extend the lifespan of the joint.

Knocked Knee Surgery

Another time distal femoral osteotomy may be performed is when the knee joints are out of alignment. “Knocked knees” can be caused by arthritis or other conditions, resulting in poor leg alignment. Reshaping the knee bones can be an effective treatment for knocked knees, realigning the bones for improved function.

If you have arthritic knee joints that are stiff and painful or out of alignment, contact us at Jonathan L. Glashow, MD. Call our office in Miami, FL, to schedule a knee consultation.