WeLive Orthopedic HospitalKJ Tower 5F–8F, Tangjeong, Asan
Treatments / Surgical Clinic
High Tibial Osteotomy (bow-leg correction)

Knee Osteotomy

The bone is cut and rejoined at a new angle and position, so body weight shifts from the painful part of the knee to the healthy part.

When cartilage on the inner knee is badly damaged by wear or injury, the shinbone (tibia) is cut and straightened so weight no longer falls on the inner knee. Bow legs are corrected, and you can keep using your own joint for a long time without a joint replacement.

Keeps your own jointUnlike replacement, your natural joint is preserved
Slows arthritisCorrecting bow legs to match weight-bearing slows arthritis
Replacement still possibleA replacement can be done later if needed
Range of motion preservedNo limit on movement or exercise
WE LIVETreatment for early to middle-stage osteoarthritis in relatively young, active patients with arthritis on the inner side of the knee.

Recommended for

Your own joint, for longer

Lowers the chance of needing replacement.

Cartilage regeneration

Reducing load on the inner joint helps cartilage there regenerate.

Sports possible

After 4 to 6 weeks of immobilization, range of motion is similar to before and sports are possible.

Questions patients ask

How is it done?

The tibia is cut near the knee, opened to the required angle from the inside, bone-grafted and fixed with a plate and screws. The plate and screws are usually removed 1 to 2 years later.

How is it different from joint replacement?

A failed replacement needs a revision, which tends to have poorer results, so replacement is generally not recommended at a young age. If an osteotomy does not work well, converting to a replacement is easier than revision, so osteotomy can be done at a younger age.

AftercareFor 6 to 8 weeks while the graft settles and heals, keep weight off the operated leg. Once X-rays confirm the graft is stable, weight-bearing and rehabilitation begin. Then actively bend and straighten the knee to prevent stiffness.