Corrective Osteotomies & Joint Preservation in Tijuana
Chronic knee pain, structural alignment issues like bowlegs or knock-knees, and early-stage joint wear can make daily activities incredibly painful. If you have been told you are too young for a total knee replacement, or if you want to actively save your natural joints, Corrective Osteotomies (Osteotomías Correctoras) offer a powerful, joint-preserving surgical solution.
At OrthoWellness, our advanced joint preservation program is led by Dra. Miroslava S. Franco. Utilizing her extensive training in structural reconstruction from the globally renowned Paley Latinoamerica Institute, Dra. Franco performs precision bone-realigning procedures that shift physical stress away from damaged cartilage, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle and delay or completely prevent the need for artificial joint implants.
Conveniently located at Consultorio 1501B inside the elite NewCity Medical Plaza in Tijuana, OrthoWellness provides top-tier, cross-border care just minutes away from the San Diego border crossing.
request an appointmentWhat is a Corrective Osteotomy?
An osteotomy is a surgical procedure where a bone is precisely cut, realigned into an anatomically correct position, and securely fixed with specialized internal plates and screws.
Instead of replacing a damaged joint with artificial implants, a corrective osteotomy addresses the underlying mechanical problem responsible for pain and accelerated wear. By restoring proper alignment, weight-bearing forces are redistributed to healthier areas of the joint, reducing pain and slowing the progression of arthritis.
For many patients, this approach preserves the natural joint while maintaining a higher level of physical activity than would be possible following a joint replacement.
Structural Alignment Conditions We Treat
Our joint preservation program focuses on correcting mechanical abnormalities that place excessive stress on the joints and surrounding structures.
- Bowlegs (Genu Varum): An outward bowing of the legs that places excessive pressure on the inner compartment of the knee, often leading to premature cartilage wear and arthritis.
- Knock-Knees (Genu Valgum): An inward angulation of the knees that overloads the outer compartment of the knee and may contribute to instability and joint degeneration.
- Rotational Deformities: Structural abnormalities involving abnormal twisting or rotational alignment of the femur or tibia.
- Post-Traumatic Deformities: Misalignments that develop after fractures heal in an abnormal position.
- Growth Plate Disorders: Limb alignment issues resulting from childhood growth disturbances or developmental abnormalities.
- Early-Stage Single-Compartment Osteoarthritis: Localized cartilage damage affecting one side of the knee in active individuals seeking alternatives to joint replacement.
Types of Advanced Osteotomies Performed at OrthoWellness
Every procedure is carefully planned using advanced digital imaging and pre-operative analysis to ensure precise correction and optimal long-term outcomes.
High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO)
High Tibial Osteotomy is commonly performed to correct bowlegs (genu varum). The upper portion of the tibia is precisely realigned to shift body weight away from the damaged inner portion of the knee and toward healthier cartilage.
This procedure can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and delay the need for knee replacement surgery in appropriate candidates.
Distal Femoral Osteotomy (DFO)
Distal Femoral Osteotomy is typically used to correct knock-knees (genu valgum). By adjusting the alignment of the femur, pressure is redistributed away from damaged portions of the joint while improving overall biomechanics.
This procedure is particularly valuable for active patients who wish to maintain a physically demanding lifestyle.
Complex Multi-Planar Realignments
Patients with severe post-traumatic deformities, congenital abnormalities, or multi-level alignment issues may require advanced correction in multiple planes simultaneously.
Using specialized internal fixation systems and computer-assisted external fixation technology, Dra. Franco can precisely restore balance, alignment, and function even in highly complex cases.
Benefits of Joint Preservation Surgery
Joint preservation procedures offer numerous advantages for carefully selected patients.
- Preservation of the natural joint
- Reduced pain during daily activities
- Improved walking mechanics and alignment
- Delayed need for total joint replacement
- Ability to maintain higher activity levels
- Reduced stress on damaged cartilage
- Improved athletic and recreational participation
- Long-term protection against progressive joint degeneration
Many patients experience substantial improvements in quality of life while maintaining the flexibility and performance of their natural joint.
Why Choose OrthoWellness for Corrective Osteotomies?
Successful osteotomy procedures require far more than simply repositioning bone. They demand a detailed understanding of lower extremity biomechanics, advanced imaging analysis, surgical precision, and comprehensive rehabilitation planning.
Dra. Miroslava S. Franco completed advanced international training in Reconstructive Surgery, Bone Lengthening, and Complex Deformity Correction at the Paley Latinoamerica Institute in Medellín, Colombia. This specialized experience allows her to address the root causes of mechanical joint dysfunction rather than simply treating symptoms.
Located within NewCity Medical Plaza, OrthoWellness provides convenient access to advanced orthopedic care for patients from throughout Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Meet Your Specialist: Dra. Miroslava S. Franco
Dra. Miroslava S. Franco is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in Advanced Knee Surgery, Reconstructive Traumatology, and Joint Preservation.
Her distinguished background includes a high-specialization international fellowship in Reconstructive Surgery, Infections, and Bone Lengthening at Clinicas El Rosario / Paley Latinoamerica Institute in Medellín, Colombia. Her advanced expertise in structural bone mechanics allows her to execute highly precise corrective osteotomies, delivering a standard of joint preservation care that mirrors the highest international benchmarks.
Her patient-centered approach focuses on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and helping patients preserve their natural joints for as long as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can an osteotomy prevent the need for a total knee replacement?
Yes. For many active or younger patients, a corrective osteotomy can delay the need for a total knee replacement by 10 to 15 years, and in some cases prevent it entirely. By preserving your natural joint tissue and cartilage, you avoid many of the limitations associated with artificial implants.
Who is the ideal candidate for a corrective osteotomy?
The ideal candidate is typically an active individual under the age of 60 who suffers from localized knee pain caused by bowlegs or knock-knees and whose joint damage is limited to one side of the knee. It is especially beneficial for patients who wish to remain physically active.
What does recovery look like after a realignment surgery?
Because modern fixation systems provide excellent stability, patients can begin early motion exercises shortly after surgery. Crutches are typically required for approximately 6 to 8 weeks while the bone heals, followed by progressive strengthening and rehabilitation.
Are osteotomies covered by medical insurance?
Yes. Corrective osteotomies performed for functional deformities, post-traumatic misalignment, or joint preservation are commonly covered by major insurance providers. Coverage varies by policy and diagnosis.
How long do the results of an osteotomy last?
Results vary depending on the patient’s condition, activity level, and severity of joint degeneration. Many patients experience significant symptom relief and delayed progression of arthritis for a decade or longer following successful correction.
Can both legs be corrected if needed?
Yes. Patients with bilateral deformities may be candidates for correction on both sides. The treatment strategy is individualized based on the severity of the deformity and overall treatment goals.
Protect Your Natural Joints. Schedule a Consultation Today.
Do not let structural misalignment continue damaging your joints. Contact our orthopedic team to learn whether corrective osteotomy and joint preservation surgery may be right for you.
Whether you are dealing with bowlegs, knock-knees, post-traumatic deformities, or early joint degeneration, we offer advanced solutions designed to restore alignment and protect your long-term mobility.
Clinic Phone: +526643295110
Clinic Location: NewCity Medical Plaza, Consultorio 1501B, P.º del Centenario 9580, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
request an appointment