Conventional Total Knee Arthroplasty in Severe Anterolateral Femoral Bowing: Lateralized Femoral Entry Point to Approach Navigation Level Alignment – A Case Report

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Authors: Pedro Rasteiro, João Pedro Nóbrega, João Rosado, João Gamelas, Joana Barreto, Nuno Ramos Marques
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Abstract

Introduction: Severe knee osteoarthritis associated with anterolateral femoral bowing presents unique challenges for achieving accurate alignment during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Extra-articular deformity may prevent proper positioning of the femoral cutting block, increasing the risk of malalignment. This case is important because it illustrates a simple and accessible technique to manage substantial femoral bowing without relying on navigation or robotic technology. Case Report: We report the case of an 84-year-old woman with end-stage left knee osteoarthritis and marked anterolateral femoral bowing, treated with cemented posterior-stabilized TKA. A key technical adaptation was the use of a deliberately lateralized femoral intramedullary (IM) entry point, allowing alignment of the IM guide with the patient's mechanical axis despite the deformity. The patient recovered uneventfully and demonstrated progressive improvement. At 6 months, she walked independently without walking aids and had full functional recovery. Conclusion: In cases of significant femoral bowing, intentional lateralization of the femoral entry point is crucial for achieving accurate mechanical alignment using conventional instrumentation. This technique is practical, reproducible, and particularly useful when advanced computer-assisted systems are unavailable.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes Knee injuries and reconstruction techniques Orthopaedic implants and arthroplasty

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports
Volume
16
Issue
2
Pages
158–162
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN