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A Distal Femoral Osteotomy (DFO) is a surgical procedure used to correct misalignment in the knee, particularly when the femur (thighbone) contributes to abnormal knee joint mechanics. It is typically indicated for patients with valgus deformity (knock-knees), where the knee angles inward, placing excessive stress on the outer compartment of the knee joint. The procedure aims to shift the weight-bearing load more evenly across the knee, relieving pain and slowing the progression of lateral compartment osteoarthritis. What DFO Fixes: 1. Valgus deformity: Misalignment where the knee tilts inward, increasing pressure on the lateral (outer) knee. 2. Unicompartmental osteoarthritis: Specifically targeting osteoarthritis affecting the outer part of the knee. 3. Cartilage damage: By redistributing load, DFO helps reduce further wear on damaged cartilage. 4. Chronic knee pain: It alleviates pain resulting from joint overloading caused by misalignment. 5. Preventing total knee replacement: DFO is often recommended for younger, active patients to delay or avoid the need for a knee replacement. The procedure involves cutting and reshaping the lower femur to correct alignment, typically shifting the knee into a more neutral position. Post-surgery, patients undergo physical therapy to restore strength and mobility, with the goal of returning to normal activity while preventing further joint deterioration.
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