Knock Knee Surgery

Knock knee is also referred to as Genu valgum, which is a condition where the knees touch each other except at the ankles. However, there are various treatment options for this condition, such as medication, exercise, orthotics, and surgery.

Now, we are going to discuss knock-knee surgery, a problem that occurs due to deformity in children's knees. In this article, we will learn about knock-knee, knock-knee surgery cost in India, as well as the common symptoms and available treatment options.

What is Knock Knee Surgery?

Knock knee is commonly referred to as Genu valgum, in which the knees touch each other and can be seen while standing, and there’s a gap between the ankles of about 8 centimeters or more.

This condition is quite common among young children, particularly those between 3 and 6 years old. It usually doesn’t carry on into their teenage years, but sometimes older kids and adults can experience it if there’s another health issue involved.

What causes Knock knees?

The exact cause of genu valgum, also known as knock knees, isn't completely clear yet. However, there are a few possible reasons for it, including issues with bone health or genetic factors. Here are some things that might increase the likelihood of developing genu valgum:

• Injury or illness that affects your leg or knee
• Skeletal dysplasia
• lysosomal storage disease, including Morquio syndrome
• Rickets
• Obesity
• Arthritis, particularly in the knee
• Calcium deficiency

Symptoms of Knock Knees

Knock knee is characterized by the inward angling of the knees, which can be visible while standing with feet together. Let’s take a look at some common symptoms of knock knees to help easily identify the conditions and seek professional help:

• Visible Inward Angling
• Knee pain
• Walking and running issues
• Gait abnormalities
• Joint pain 
• Limited range of motion
• Discomfort in doing physical activity

Diagnosing Knock Knees

Diagnosis of knock-knee starts with physical examination, in which the doctor checks the patient’s detailed medical history. However, if a patient with symptoms is a child, then the doctor will check the growth trajectory of their legs. Yet if the pain is present, then the doctor will likely ask the person to describe its location, severity, and frequency.

To check the condition, the doctor will also look at:

• Knee alignment while standing
• How a person walks.
• Check whether the legs have different lengths.

In some cases, the doctor will order an MRI or X-ray to examine the bone structure.

When Knock Knee Surgery is Considered

Knock knee surgery, which is also known as osteotomy or arthroplasty, is generally considered when other non-surgical treatment options like physical therapy and bracing fail to adequately address severe knock knees or when they cause pain, functional limitations, or joint damage.

Who is a Candidate for Knock Knee Surgery?

Knock-knee surgery is generally recommended for patients with severe knock-knee deformities that cause significant pain and have not responded to other non-surgical treatment methods.

How is Knock Knee Treated?

There are various options for knock knees, which include medications and surgery. So, here are some details about the medications and surgeries:

Medications include:

• Vitamin D supplements are prescribed to increase vitamin D levels and improve bone health.
• Bisphosphonates, which help to increase bone density and may be prescribed for certain conditions that cause bone softening or weakness.
• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, to help manage pain.

However, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications for knock knees and its underlying cause of complications.

Surgical options include:

Surgical intervention might be needed in severe cases to correct the knee alignment. However, the type of surgery depends on the severity of the misalignment and the cause.

• Osteotomy: In this procedure, a cut in the bone will be made in the lower leg or upper thigh and realigned to correct the knee angle.
• Knee replacement: In severe joint damage, knee replacement is necessary to treat the alignment and also improve joint function.
• Guided growth surgery: This procedure involves the temporary insertion of a small plate or screws that help to correct the growth pattern of the knee bone.

Furthermore, surgical interventions for knock knees can be reserved for severe cases, and it doesn’t respond to other treatment options like physical therapy or medication. So, it's important to discuss your concerns with your doctor, which will help them determine which treatment option is better for your issues.

What are the Side Effects of Knock Knee Surgery?

Like any other surgery, knock-knee surgery also has some side effects, and some of them are given below:

• Pain 
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Infection

Anesthesia side effects:

• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Breathing difficulties
• Cognitive dysfunction (especially in individuals over 60 years)
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Hoarse voice
• Headache

What is the Recovery Time of Knock Knee Surgery?

The recovery time for knock-knee surgery varies, but it generally takes 2 months for full recovery. However, initial healing can take up to 4 to 6 weeks, and you will be instructed on what to do and what not to do by your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

In most cases, the genu valgum condition can be resolved before a child reaches adolescence. However, in older children and adults, therapy and exercises are a must to realign the knees and relieve pain, and some may require orthotics or braces. Apart from that, in some severe cases, surgery might be necessary, but it's usually the last option when other therapies haven’t managed to provide relief.

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