But, which surgical option should you consider?

Which surgical procedure would most effectively relieve your pain and improve mobility?

When most patients think of joint surgery, they think of a total joint replacement.

Woman runner on a bench in a park holding her knee in pain

PredragImages / Getty Images

But, there are other procedures you should know about.

Here, we will concentrate on osteotomy.

Osteotomy Explained

Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves bone-cutting.

The surgeon removes a wedge of bone located near the damaged joint.

Inosteoarthritis, the damage is typically more significant on the inner portion of the knee.

Ultimately, the procedure allows the weight to be distributed more evenly across the joint cartilage.

Osteotomy surgically repositions the joint, realigning the mechanical axis away from the damaged cartilage.

An immobilization cast or internal plates are also sometimes used for stability.

Who Is a Candidate for Osteotomy?

Knowing what to expect as an end result can help.

Usual surgical complications are possible with osteotomy as well.

Patients may also have a cast or splint for 4 to 8 weeks.

Physical therapy, leg-strengthening exercises, and walking are part of the full rehabilitation program.

Osteotomy and Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

April 20, 2007.https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/content/surgicaldetail/hw125548.html#hw125550