Techniques for valgus and varus osteotomies in the treatment of gonarthrosis

Some modifications to the treatment of valgus and varus deformities caused by gonarthrosis, and a new radiological technique, for normal and pathological patterns of valgus and varus, which give more security and simplify the procedure, are presented. With this technique it has been established that the normal knee should have a valgus-angle of between +3 degrees and -7 degrees. Outside these values, the knee condition is pathological. Valgus is considered positive (+) and varus negative (-). A new, simple double-angle retractor for the knee and very thin osteotomes are presented in order to facilitate the operation. There are also some variations to the surgical technique, two incisions being made. The fibular osteotomy is made in the head rather than the diaphysis, with elimination of the superior tibiofibular joint to give space for retractor placement. A resistant and simple metal appliance is presented; it allows early mobilization of the knee, thus reducing the cast period from six to two and a half weeks.