For proper weight bearing, the leg joints are aligned so that weight is distributed evenly on the knee. |
If osteoarthritis degenerates the inner portion of the knee, the leg may bow out. |
A wedge is removed from the tibia allowing the leg to be shifted slightly, which takes weight off the inside of the knee. |
Screws or staples are used to hold the bone in place. The result is a slightly "knock kneed" appearance which allows the healthier outer knee to bear most of the weight. |
Review Date:
12/24/2012
Reviewed By:
Ariel D. Teitel, MD, MBA, Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, NYU Langone Medical Center. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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