Axis Correction in Cartilage Repair

Abstract

Angular deformity of the lower limb, either physiological or after incorrect healing of lower limb fractures may cause severe degenerative changes and thus functional impairment of both hip, knee and ankle joints. Therefore, early correction of the axis is strictly indicated. This article focuses on the correction of axial deformities especially when using “bioresurfacing techniques” in cartilage disorders like microfracturing, autologous osteochondral transplantation and autologous chondrocyte transplantation which is reported to bring about marked advantages for the regeneration of the articular surface. Anatomic considerations and principles of correction osteotomy are discussed, three rules of osteotomy in general and in osteotomies around the knee are postulated.

Key words

Cartilage repair - angular deformity of the lower limb - posttraumatic malalignment - axis correction - principles of correction osteotomy

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