Orthopaedic Innovation

Osteotomy - limb realignment surgery

A lasting solution for knee pain without joint replacement

Innovative orthopaedic interventions from world-leading surgeons.

19 Harley Street, Cromwell Hospital, London Independent Hospital

Living with knee pain can be frustrating and limiting, especially if you’re an active individual. If arthritis or knee misalignment is stopping you from moving freely, knee realignment surgery (osteotomy) could be the solution. 

Unlike knee replacement, osteotomy preserves your natural joint, restoring balance and reducing pain—without the need for artificial implants.

Led by Professor Adrian Wilson, a globally recognised expert in knee osteotomy, this advanced procedure realigns your leg, reducing pressure on damaged areas and promoting long-term joint health. 

Using computer-guided precision and custom-designed surgical instruments, this technique allows patients to bear weight within 24 hours and experience a faster, more effective recovery.

Knee or limb realignment surgery - osteotomy

Is leg/knee realignment surgery right for you?

Osteotomy is ideal for individuals who:
  • Have knee arthritis that affects movement and causes pain.
  • Experience bow-legged (varus) or knock-kneed (valgus) misalignment.
  • Want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.
  • Are active and want to return to sports or exercise.
  • Need a stronger, more stable knee for long-term joint health.

If knee pain is limiting your life, this procedure could be the solution.

How osteotomy works: a personalised approach

Professor Wilson’s computer-aided osteotomy technique ensures precise alignment corrections tailored to your knee’s needs.

For bow-legged patients (varus knee) – Arthritis often damages the inner knee first. A high tibial osteotomy corrects this by realigning the shin bone, evenly distributing body weight across the knee.

For knock-kneed patients (valgus knee) – Arthritis often affects the outer knee. A femoral osteotomy corrects this by realigning the thigh bone, improving balance and function.

By targeting the root cause of knee pain, this technique protects your joint and prevents further damage, delaying or avoiding the need for knee replacement.

"It feels like a new knee again!"
"It's 10 time better than I was expecting!"
"Thank you Kristian for the painless and successful osteotomy. You are a great surgeon!"

I had three procedures carried out under the care of Professor Wilson in 2022. One was a lateral meniscus repair on my left knee, while the other two were high tibial closing wedge osteotomies on both knees. I could not recommend Professor Wilson and his supporting team highly enough. The quality of care was excellent and the communication both before and after each operation was first class.

Michael Sutcliffe

I cannot thank Prof Adrian Wilson enough for restoring my knees. From the first consultation for my high tibial osteotomy on both knees, he explained the procedure and accommodated my special circumstances of leaving abroad for the treatment plan. The surgery was a great success with minimal postoperative pain and follow-up care by his team was phenomenal. I was impressed by the cutting edge treatments he helped us explore that were clearly explained to me. The Lipogem treatment was truly a game changer in my healing process – I am fully back to all physical activity I last did over 10 years ago! I highly recommend Prof Wilson.

Patricia Muhebwa

Read more reviews

World-leading experts in knee realignment surgery

Our surgical team are pioneers in the field of knee surgery, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge innovation to improve patient outcomes.

Patented surgical techniques

Our surgeons have developed and patented groundbreaking osteotomy methods that enhance precision and longevity. They’re part of a very small group of individuals that sit on the scientific advisory board for Newclip and other leading orthopaedic companies globally for Osteotomy surgery.

Our team has helped develop the plates that are now used commonly for this procedure and train other surgeons through an internationally recognised course all to deliver Osteotomy surgery for their patients.

Leaders in research & education

Our team publishes research in leading medical journals and trains surgeons worldwide in the latest surgical techniques.

Advancing knee replacement technology

We’re at the forefront of developing new implants and surgical approaches to deliver faster recovery, reduced pain, and better long-term function.
By choosing our expert team, you’re receiving world-class care from leading innovators in knee surgery.

Why choose osteotomy over knee replacement?

  • Preserves your natural knee – Unlike knee replacement, no artificial implants are needed.
  • Prevents further joint damage – By redistributing weight, osteotomy reduces cartilage wear and slows arthritis progression.
  • More stability than knee replacement – Many patients report that their knee feels stronger and more natural than with an artificial joint.
  • Long-term benefits – This procedure delays or prevents knee replacement by 10-15 years in many cases.
  • Stay active & return to sport – Unlike knee replacement, osteotomy allows for high-impact activities like running or skiing.

If you’re too young for a knee replacement or want to stay active without limitations, osteotomy could be the best option for you.

What to expect from the procedure

  • Minimal scarring & faster healing
  • Custom-designed surgical instruments ensure precision
  • Secure metal plates & pins allow early weight-bearing
  • Expert rehabilitation plan for long-term knee health

Unlike traditional knee surgery, this cutting-edge technique reduces recovery time, allowing you to return to movement sooner.

Your recovery: What happens after surgery?

First 24 hours – Most patients bear weight on the knee within a day, reducing stiffness.

Cryotherapy is very important and we use Physiolab on everyone.

Early rehabilitation – Gentle movement exercises begin shortly after surgery.

Progressive recovery – Strength-building and flexibility exercises help restore full function.

Return to work & activity – Most people return to office work within 6 weeks, with high-impact activities possible in the following months.

With Professor Wilson’s technique, recovery is quicker, safer, and more effective than ever before.

Take the first step

Book a consultation with Professor Adrian Wilson.
Receive your personalised treatment plan based on your medical situation.
If you go ahead with the plan, we’ll see you here in London for your treatment.
Enjoy life pain-free, doing the things you love without limitations.

Frequently asked questions about Osteotomy/leg realignment surgery

We accept many insurance companies, please contact us to discuss your specific case.

Yes, you can. We can book virtual consultations or you can come to our clinic in Harley Street, London.

Our surgeons operate at both the Cromwell Hospital, 164-178 Cromwell Rd, London SW5 0TU and the The London Independent Hospital, 1 Beaumont Square, London E1 4NL

Some patients are able to go home the same day, whilst most stay overnight in hospital.

Our medical team will monitor your recovery, help manage pain, and ensure that you are able to safely bear weight on your leg before you are discharged.

Typically, patients can begin to bear weight on the operated leg within 24 hours, but you may need crutches for support for the first 4 to 6 weeks. The timeline for walking without crutches varies depending on individual recovery, but most patients are able to walk unaided within 6 to 8 weeks.

If your job is not physically demanding, you may be able to return to work after about 6 weeks. However, if your job involves manual labour or high levels of activity, you may need more time off or temporary work modifications. Most patients can resume normal daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the intensity of those activities.

Osteotomy is designed to delay the need for a knee replacement, and in many cases, it can postpone it by 10 to 15 years. Some patients may eventually require a knee replacement, especially if arthritis progresses or if they experience significant wear and tear on the joint over time.

Yes, physical therapy is an important part of your recovery process. Starting as soon as the day after surgery, a rehabilitation plan will be developed to help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your knee. Regular physical therapy sessions will continue for several weeks to ensure optimal recovery.

Post-surgery pain is managed with a combination of medication, including anti-inflammatories and pain relievers. Your anaesthetist will prescribe a pain management plan tailored to your needs. Most patients experience significant pain relief within a few days to weeks as they start rehabilitation and regain strength in the knee.

To discuss the pricing of surgery for your specific case, please get in touch with our dedicated admin team.
Locations

The Harley Street Hospital,
19 Harley Street,
London, W1G 9QJ
The Cromwell Hospital,
164-178 Cromwell Road,
London SW5 0TU
The London Independent Hospital,
1 Beaumont Square,
London E1 4NL
Medical disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and individual cases may vary. Any surgical or non-surgical treatments discussed on this website should be considered in consultation with a medical professional who can assess your individual needs and medical history.
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