Tools for high tibial wedge osteotomy.

Surgical instruments are described which have been developed for use in high tibial wedge osteotomy. This operation is a treatment for degenerative arthritis of the knee in which one compartment of the joint is predominantly affected resulting in a deformity. Realignment of the bones alters the load distribution on the joint which can relieve pain. Tools have been designed to facilitate the removal of a wedge of bone cut at a precise angle calculated from load bearing radiographs. The tools are a marker pin guide and a saw guide; their use has resulted in accurate bone realignment confirmed by postoperative radiographs.