Gonartec® Varus/Valgus OA Unloading Knee Brace

Condylar Pneumatic Air Cell – Allows medial or lateral corrective pressure to be progressively adjusted.

3-Point Corrective System – Air-cell pressure works with two opposing straps to create compartment-specific unloading.

Polycentric Articulation – Provides structured joint control on the corrective side of the orthosis.

Contralateral Flexible Stays – Provide additional reinforcement opposite the articulated side.

Varus / Valgus Configuration – Separate 6121D and 6121I models accommodate different limb/pathology combinations.

Medial or Lateral Compartment Unloading – Designed for compartment-specific tibiofemoral osteoarthritis.

Femoral & Tibial Straps – Provide additional fixation above and below the knee.

Infrapatellar Support – Provides local support around the anterior knee.

Anterior Femoral & Posterior Calf Openings – Facilitate application of the orthosis.

39 cm Brace Height – Structured coverage above and below the knee.

Six Sizes – XS/1 through XXL/6 based on patella-centre circumference.

Beige.

Indicated for medial or lateral tibiofemoral compartment osteoarthritis, including gonarthrosis associated with genu varum or genu valgum.

May also be used for selected medial or lateral meniscal injuries where compartment-specific mechanical unloading is clinically indicated.

What is the principal function of Gonartec® 6121?
It is a compartment-specific unloading orthosis. A pneumatic condylar cushion and opposing straps create a 3-point corrective system to modify load distribution through the medial or lateral tibiofemoral compartment.

How does the pneumatic unloading system work?
Inflation of the condylar air cushion increases the corrective force applied to one side of the knee. Together with the opposing straps, this creates a three-point system intended to unload the targeted compartment and influence the femorotibial axial relationship.

How do I select 6121D or 6121I?
Selection is based on both the limb and the varus/valgus presentation: 6121D is used for right-knee varus or left-knee valgus; 6121I is used for left-knee varus or right-knee valgus.

Does “Right” mean the brace is only for the right knee?
No. The model designation describes the corrective configuration rather than simply the side of the knee. For example, 6121D is used for right varus but also left valgus.

What is the difference between varus and valgus unloading?
The required configuration depends on the direction of the axial deformity and the compartment requiring unloading. Varus and valgus presentations therefore require different locations of corrective condylar pressure.

Where should circumference be measured?
Measure around the centre of the patella. The brace is available in six circumference ranges from 32 cm to 49 cm.

What is the brace height?
The Gonartec® 6121 is approximately 39 cm high.

Does the brace restrict range of motion?
Its primary function is compartment unloading and stabilisation rather than prescribed ROM restriction. The polycentric articulation allows functional knee movement while providing structural control.

Can the pneumatic pressure be adjusted?
Yes. The condylar air cushion incorporates an inflation system so corrective pressure can be adjusted during fitting according to the clinical objective and patient tolerance.

How is this different from Gonartec® Advance?
Both are unicompartmental unloading orthoses. Gonartec® 6121 uses a pneumatic condylar air-cell and opposing straps to generate the corrective three-point system, whereas Gonartec® Advance uses a different unilateral joint and strap-based unloading architecture.