Femoral osteotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is performed to correct deformities or misalignment in the femur, hip joint. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that allows smooth movement, where the acetabulum forms the socket and the femoral head (upper portion of the thigh bone) acts as the ball. The hip joint is supported by gluteal muscles and ligaments, which stabilize the hip and enable movement.
Femoral osteotomy is often performed for two reasons: if the femur is abnormally twisted, causing the knee or foot to point inwards (Genu varum) or outwards (Genu Valgus) and positioning the femoral head incorrectly in the hip socket, or when the femoral head’s angle sits too high or low, creating insufficient coverage in the hip socket. During the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will make an incision in the upper thigh bone (femur), adjusts its position, and secures it with metal plates and screws until healing is complete.
The aim of the operation is to reduce pain and improve joint function by redistributing weight as well as reducing pressure on damaged areas. Femoral Osteotomy realigns the femur to correct issues like hip dysplasia, bowlegged deformities, or osteoarthritis where misalignment has led to uneven wear and pain. The procedure can help relieve pain, delay arthritis progression, and restore mobility.
Rotational abnormalities, such as coxa vara and coxa valga, occur more frequently in women and can be present from birth or develop during skeletal maturity. Typically, these deformities affect both legs, though they can also result from traumatic injuries like fractures of the femur. People born with these abnormalities usually begin to experience noticeable symptoms in their twenties. Diagnosing these conditions can be tricky, as the root cause of pain or issues with walking, sitting, or standing may not be immediately clear. If left untreated, these conditions may lead to labral tears, hip impingement, and arthritis.