TKR Osteoporosis and TKR

[Cementless]

I have a question about TKR: my twin sister has severe osteopenia and quite a lot of osteoporosis. She has severe scoliosis, bow legs and one knee that is bone on bone. Can one still have a TKR with these issues? She says she is not in any pain but walks with a severe limp. Her friends (and husband makes fun of her) are commenting. She is in denial. She is going to PT to try and strengthen her muscles and it was suggested she wear a brace on the bad knee. Will a TKR work in this situation?

 

[Celle]

I don't think we can give you a definite answer @Cementless .
The best course of action would be for your sister to consult an experienced knee surgeon - and tell her husband not to be so unkind..

 

[Carmencita]

Hi @Cementless i just read your post about your sister. I have osteopenia, rheumatoid arthritis, spondylolisthesis of lumbar vertebrae. I had TKR on 12 Feb. I am doing well and I am blown away by how strong and stable the new knee feels after only 8 weeks! I also have bow legs. On top of this, an added complication of bone cysts in the knee caused by chemotherapy for breast cancer 15 years ago. I am bone on bone (both knees), but like your sister, did not have a lot of pain, just very unstable and unpredictable knee joints. The only real pain was from bleeds I kept getting in the knee, due to increased synovium, which in turn caused increased fragile blood vessels.

I thought all of this would mean I was unlikely to have a successful knee replacement but I am pleased to say I was wrong! So much so, I am hoping to get the 2nd knee done soon.

As Celle has suggested, your sister should really speak to a knee specialist. I know my situation and hers aren’t identical, but there is definitely hope for her! Best wishes

 

[Cementless]

I am having trouble logging in to the post op recovery thread now. Any suggestions?
They want me to log in again and it says they are having trouble with it.

 

[Pumpkln]

@Cementless
Here is a link to Knee surgery post op forum.

 

[Pumpkln]

As I recall you have a metal allergy, your sister should be tested prior to any joint replacement or just be given the same type of implant you had for your revision.

 

[Cementless]

My twin sister has to wear this OA brace for walking, dancing and exercise now. She is in PT to strengthen her muscles.