Jan 2011 alum and now need a revision

[nickal]

I had both knees done at the same time in Jan 2011. They used the Styker Triathlon which at that time was state of the art. My left knee which had 15 prior knee ops prior to replacement has started acting up and my Doctor (awesome Dr. William Leone) believes I need a revision even though the Xrays were unremarkable.

He said he won't know if I will need to have the spacers removed, resized and inserted or, if the entire implant will need to be redone. Hoping it's just the spacers!!! I had thought my new knees would outlast me and at 64, disappointed at the longevity and my right knee is beginning to feel a bit lose as well. I had some issues with anesthesia last time so they are doing a spinal. If it's just the spacers I may be able to go home the same day which blows me away as I spent 10 nights in the hospital when both were replaced. Ok after all that, this is my question. He said he would still need to cut my quad so he could get in there and inspect the entirety of the joint. I wish there was a way to avoid that step but still have access to test the viability of the existing joint. Any thoughts?

 

[Jockette]

Hi, and Welcome back, though I’m sorry for the circumstances.

I know you seem very confident with your current doctor, but I think if it was me, before I went through another surgery, I’d get a second opinion and ask specifically about cutting the quad muscle, as that is not always necessary these days, though in some cases it is.

Hospital for Special Surgery in New York also has a location in Florida, if that would be closer to you, in case you’re interested.

Best wishes!

 

[benne68]

my question. He said he would still need to cut my quad so he could get in there and inspect the entirety of the joint. I wish there was a way to avoid that step but still have access to test the viability of the existing joint.

I agree with @Jockette -- if it was me, I'd want a second opinion. Even though I love the surgeon who did my hip and knee, he's getting older and may not be keeping up with the latest procedures.

Good luck. Let us know!