Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

[Guest guest]

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

[Guest guest]

Hi,

Yes, Our use to be neighbor who just died last Friday at

the age of 86 had BTKR TWICE. The first set lasted her

18 years. The second set was coming up on 15 with no

problems. She was very active until about 3 years ago

when an aneurism was found in her aorta and she had to

have it replaced.

My first OS does not believe in waiting till you are in your

60's basically because he doesn't think it's fair for people

to suffer for years like I did before getting help.

Sherry

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

[Guest guest]

>

>

>

> My questions to the group are:

> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a

TKR

> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better

> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting

> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age

people

> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patient

> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the

> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.

> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.

> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to be

> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone

here

> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related

> long term success and/or problems?

>

> Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want

to do them

> until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel

chair. Mine

> started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections,

arthroscopies,

> etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get

hit by a car

> tomorrow.

>

Hi ,Thank you so much for responding. I am compiling info

in order to make my decision, and personal stories pull alot of

weight with me. Can I ask a few questions? How long ago did you

have your TKR's? What kind (brand??) did your doc put in? what

limitations, besides no kneeling do you have now? I so appreciate

your answers. thankyou , Suzy

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi,

>

> Yes, Our use to be neighbor who just died last Friday at

> the age of 86 had BTKR TWICE. The first set lasted her

> 18 years. The second set was coming up on 15 with no

> problems. She was very active until about 3 years ago

> when an aneurism was found in her aorta and she had to

> have it replaced.

>

> My first OS does not believe in waiting till you are in your

> 60's basically because he doesn't think it's fair for people

> to suffer for years like I did before getting help.

>

> Sherry

>

> Hi Sherry,

Thanks a ton for your reply. Personal stories are an important part

of helping me make my decisions! so sorry to hear about your

neighbor passing away recently. Sounds like her TKR's served her

well. I had heard if one has to have repeat TKR's, there are

problems. Doesn't sound like she experienced this. did you have a

TKR too and can I ask you at what age and how long ago? Any info is

appreciated and I wish you good things in your life! Suzy in

Cleveland, Ohio

> Re: TKR, age, possible

infection in new knee

>

>

>

>

>

> My questions to the group are:

> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a

TKR

> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better

> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting

> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age

people

> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older

patient

> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last

the

> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.

> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as

good.

> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to

be

> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone

here

> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related

> long term success and/or problems?

>

> Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want

to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a

wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of

the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them

done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Suzy,

I can't speak for long term, but I am only 48 and had a double TKR

just 5-weeks ago. I had normal drainage and no infection. My doctor

said that if I don't do impact sports, I should get 20 to 30 years out

of my knees. He also stated that everyone is different. What he did

emphasize is that; " does it matter if you get 15 or 25 pain free years

out of your implant if you feel better for all those years? "

If you go to a good hospital and have a good surgeon, the risks of

infection are greatly reduced. There is always a chance of infection

with any major operation, but picking the right hospital decreases it

significantly. Also make sure your surgeon does hundreds of TKRs a

year not just a few.

Best Regards & Good Luck

Alan Branch

>

> Hi, Suzy again.

>

> Saw my new orth doc yesterday. The good thing is he seems to care

> about me and not just looking for me to rush into surgery with/out

> weighing the benefits/risks. I will need a L ankle fusion and R

> TKR. I just have to figure when and my finances and such. No easy

> answers.

>

> My questions to the group are:

> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKR

> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better

> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting

> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age people

> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patient

> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the

> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.

> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.

> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to be

> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone here

> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related

> long term success and/or problems?

>

> 2) He told me I need to be aware of the risk of infection in the TKR

> knee. He said 1 in 200 people get an infection which can cause

> serious problems. I did a quick search and found info that said 2%

> or 1 in 50 have this occur. This is an infection that is carried by

> the blood stream, say from a sore tooth, or a sore throat, etc. He

> said the TKR is like a foreign body, like a splinter, in your body

> and any infection would be drawn to it and is then difficult to

> treat. I did a search on the web and read some info and personal

> horror stories on this, so I guess it happens. So, anyone out there

> had any experience with this?

>

> I'm trying to gather facts and info also from real people in order

> to make my plan.

>

> Hey THANKS in advance!!!!!

>

> Suzy, 55, near Cleveland Ohio

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Hi Suzy,

>

> I can't speak for long term, but I am only 48 and had a double TKR

> just 5-weeks ago. I had normal drainage and no infection. My

doctor

> said that if I don't do impact sports, I should get 20 to 30 years

out

> of my knees. He also stated that everyone is different. What he

did

> emphasize is that; " does it matter if you get 15 or 25 pain free

years

> out of your implant if you feel better for all those years? "

>

> If you go to a good hospital and have a good surgeon, the risks of

> infection are greatly reduced. There is always a chance of

infection

> with any major operation, but picking the right hospital decreases

it

> significantly. Also make sure your surgeon does hundreds of TKRs a

> year not just a few.

>

> Best Regards & Good Luck

>

> Alan Branch

>

>Hi Alan,

Thanks sooo much for your reply and I wish you continued success on

TKR's! Wow, I wonder why one doc says 10-15 years and another says

20-30 years???? Can I as you a few questions? What type (brand??)

of knee did you have put in? Where do you live and what is the name

of your doctor? I just don't know why there would be such a big

difference. I am not overweight, so that wouldn't have been a

factor. I wonder if there's a difference in how men do as opposed

to women?

Oh, and the infection that my doc was warning me about was not

infection obtained during surgery, it was infection you can get in

your knee any time you have a foreign object (TKR) in your body.

You can get it easily from any little dental problem and even when

getting teeth cleaned because of the type of germs that live in your

mouth. That is why they put you on antibiotics before going to the

dentist after having TKR. did your doc mention this?

Must be hard having two done at once, however you sound positive and

I'm sure you will do great!!

Thanx, Suzy in Cleveland, Ohio

[Guest guest]

I have to agree with Alan. Life is short. I need to be active and healthy now. I'm 56 and had BTKR six weeks ago. I had reached the point where my knees were limiting what I could do. Pain was affecting my mental well-being. I wanted new strong knees now while I can enjoy doing things with my grandchilren. Every moment with them is golden. In ten years, the oldest will be applying to college. Strong knees will contribute to my overall health. I swim, occasionally bike when I can get to the beach where my allergies are not a problem. But I need more diverse and weight-bearing exercises to control the pounds. I gain weight, and my sugar and blood pressue levels go up. Now they're coming

down along with my weight. I have osteoarthritis and will also require hip replacements. I hope to have all this done by the time I'm 60 if I can manage the medical bills and time off work. I feared the bad knees and hips would have more damage on other diseased parts of my body, like my back. I have one income and plan to take a different direction in my career to increase my income. Heaven knows I need to with these medical bills. Limping into an interview would seriously damage my chances of of getting a new job. In addition to enjoying my grandchildren, my dream to is travel. There is no way I could take off on a trip with those old knees. I hope I won't be single all my life. I'm not sure Mr. Right is out there. But I have a better chance of running into him if I am out there in the world, vital and healthy, and not home on the couch. :-) BTKR was the right way for me to go. I hope that in 20 years -- if I'm still around in 20 years -- when these knees wear out, we will have new medical technology that will offer even a better solutions for knee and hip revisions. It is also quite possible that a whole new breed of pain killers will make surgery unnecessary for some. But even without these changes, new knees, and in the future new hips, is the way for me to go. All that said, please know, this is a personal and individual decision. I just wanted to share with you

my reasons for proceeding. Perhaps you will relate to some of them. Warm regards, Donna Suzy <slwernet@...> wrote: >> Hi Suzy,> > I

can't speak for long term, but I am only 48 and had a double TKR> just 5-weeks ago. I had normal drainage and no infection. My doctor> said that if I don't do impact sports, I should get 20 to 30 years out> of my knees. He also stated that everyone is different. What he did> emphasize is that; "does it matter if you get 15 or 25 pain free years> out of your implant if you feel better for all those years?" > > If you go to a good hospital and have a good surgeon, the risks of> infection are greatly reduced. There is always a chance of infection> with any major operation, but picking the right hospital decreases it> significantly. Also make sure your surgeon does hundreds of TKRs a> year not just a few.> > Best Regards & Good Luck> > Alan Branch> >Hi Alan,Thanks sooo much for your reply and I wish you continued success on

TKR's! Wow, I wonder why one doc says 10-15 years and another says 20-30 years???? Can I as you a few questions? What type (brand??) of knee did you have put in? Where do you live and what is the name of your doctor? I just don't know why there would be such a big difference. I am not overweight, so that wouldn't have been a factor. I wonder if there's a difference in how men do as opposed to women?Oh, and the infection that my doc was warning me about was not infection obtained during surgery, it was infection you can get in your knee any time you have a foreign object (TKR) in your body. You can get it easily from any little dental problem and even when getting teeth cleaned because of the type of germs that live in your mouth. That is why they put you on antibiotics before going to the dentist after having TKR. did your doc mention this?Must be hard having two done at once, however you sound positive

and I'm sure you will do great!!Thanx, Suzy in Cleveland, Ohio

Stay in the know. Pulse on the new .com. Check it out.

[Guest guest]

Hooray for you Donna! I'm so happy for you! I think you are absolutely right in getting your knees done now, I too have grandchildren and want to enjoy them now, by the time I'm old enough to get a knee my grandkids won't want to play with Gramma. Even now my 4 year old asks when am I getting a new knee?, so I can sit on the floor with him and play cars - that's all he wants to do - anyways I am due for a new knee but have an infection from an old surgery that just won't heal up, but when it does I will have TKR. Right now I am the biggest couch potato!! I make cards during the day and watch TV at night. I'm very lucky to have a wonderful husband who takes very good care of me and is a great help around the house too. But by being a couch potato I have gained alot of weight which my OS wants me to loose before surgery so I am working on that...I take alot of pain meds so I don't go out on my own too much, have great girlfriends that

come to visit or take me our to lunch.. I know what you mean about the job, I had to take forced early retirement and thought I'd do some temp work, but going to interviews with a cane doesn't go very far. I am lucky that I live in Canada though, as my surgery will be paid for, which really helps because we are on one income right now. After surgeyr I will be going back to work, I look forward to getting out of the house!!! and doing something!!! Anyways, hope things are good for you, take care... Coquitlam, BC Canada Donna Hart <ohdonna_68@...> wrote: I have to agree with Alan. Life is short. I need to be active and healthy now. I'm 56 and had BTKR six weeks ago. I had reached the point where my knees were limiting what I could do. Pain was affecting my mental well-being. I wanted new strong knees now while I can enjoy doing things with my grandchilren. Every moment with them is golden. In ten years, the oldest will be applying to college. Strong knees will contribute to my overall health. I swim, occasionally bike when I can get to the beach where

my allergies are not a problem. But I need more diverse and weight-bearing exercises to control the pounds. I gain weight, and my sugar and blood pressue levels go up. Now they're coming down along with my weight. I have osteoarthritis and will also require hip replacements. I hope to have all this done by the time I'm 60 if I can manage the medical bills and time off work. I feared the bad knees and hips would have more damage on other diseased parts of my body, like my back. I have one income and plan to take a different direction in my career to increase my income. Heaven knows I need to with these medical bills. Limping into an interview would seriously damage my chances

of of getting a new job. In addition to enjoying my grandchildren, my dream to is travel. There is no way I could take off on a trip with those old knees. I hope I won't be single all my life. I'm not sure Mr. Right is out there. But I have a better chance of running into him if I am out there in the world, vital and healthy, and not home on the couch. :-) BTKR was the right way for me to go. I hope that in 20 years -- if I'm still around in 20 years -- when these knees wear out, we will have new medical technology that will offer even a better solutions for knee and hip revisions. It is also quite possible that a whole new breed of pain killers will make surgery unnecessary for some. But even without these changes, new knees, and in the future new hips, is the way for me to go.

All that said, please know, this is a personal and individual decision. I just wanted to share with you my reasons for proceeding. Perhaps you will relate to some of them. Warm regards, Donna Suzy <slwernet > wrote: >> Hi Suzy,> > I can't speak for long term, but I am only 48 and had a double TKR> just 5-weeks ago. I had normal

drainage and no infection. My doctor> said that if I don't do impact sports, I should get 20 to 30 years out> of my knees. He also stated that everyone is different. What he did> emphasize is that; "does it matter if you get 15 or 25 pain free years> out of your implant if you feel better for all those years?" > > If you go to a good hospital and have a good surgeon, the risks of> infection are greatly reduced. There is always a chance of infection> with any major operation, but picking the right hospital decreases it> significantly. Also make sure your surgeon does hundreds of TKRs a> year not just a few.> > Best Regards & Good Luck> > Alan Branch> >Hi Alan,Thanks sooo much for your reply and I wish you continued success on TKR's! Wow, I wonder why one doc says 10-15 years and another says 20-30 years???? Can I as you

a few questions? What type (brand??) of knee did you have put in? Where do you live and what is the name of your doctor? I just don't know why there would be such a big difference. I am not overweight, so that wouldn't have been a factor. I wonder if there's a difference in how men do as opposed to women?Oh, and the infection that my doc was warning me about was not infection obtained during surgery, it was infection you can get in your knee any time you have a foreign object (TKR) in your body. You can get it easily from any little dental problem and even when getting teeth cleaned because of the type of germs that live in your mouth. That is why they put you on antibiotics before going to the dentist after having TKR. did your doc mention this?Must be hard having two done at once, however you sound positive and I'm sure you will do great!!Thanx, Suzy in Cleveland, Ohio Stay in the know. Pulse on the new .com. Check it out.

Share your photos with the people who matter at Canada Photos

[Guest guest]

Suzy,

Yes I had both knees replaced in January of this year.

Because of the doctors screw up I am having a total

revision of the right one on the 1st next Wednesday.

I am planning on suing.

Sherry

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee> > > > > > My questions to the group are:> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKR> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age people> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patient> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to be> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone here> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related> long term success and/or problems?> > Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow. >

[Guest guest]

Hi guys

had both my knees replaced at 30 and have just had a re do of the Right one 8 weeks ago

There was never any doubt that they had to be done it was totally up to me

after all I was the one living with the pain not the Dr

Aussie

-- Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

__________ NOD32 1.1833 (20061025) Information __________This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system.http://www.eset.com__________ NOD32 1.1833 (20061025) Information __________This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system.http://www.eset.com

[Guest guest]

I trust you are having a different surgeon this time. i wish you the

best in this surgeyr and the law suit.

On Oct 26, 2006, at 8:34 PM, S.A.M. wrote:

> Suzy,

>  

> Yes I had both knees replaced in January of this year.

> Because of the doctors screw up I am having a total

> revision of the right one on the 1st next Wednesday.

> I am planning on suing.

>  

> Sherry

>  

>  

>> Re: TKR, age, possible

>> infection in new knee

>> >

>> >

>> >

>> >

>> >

>> > My questions to the group are:

>> > 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a

>> TKR

>> > until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better

>> > about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting

>> > about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age

>> people

>> > do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older

>> patient

>> > tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last

>> the

>> > 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.

>> > Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as

>> good.

>> > the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to

>> be

>> > too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone

>> here

>> > want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related

>> > long term success and/or problems?

>> >

>> > Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want

>> to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a

>> wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of

>> the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them

>> done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

>> >

>>

>

The Will of God will never take you to where the Grace

of God will not protect you.

[Guest guest]

Suzy:

To answer your question about brand. Near as I can figure there is

not much difference between them. Also you don't have a whole lot of

chose because it is the doctors descision so if you want a specific

brand you will need to shop for a doctor. I would guess the

qualifications of the doctor are more important that the product.

In the case of knees, there are metalic (variouse metals) parts and

the plastic cushion between them. The metal if very very hard and

highly polished. The plastic is the same type that is in skateboard

wheels (very very tough). Over the years it is the plastic that

deforms or wears out. Having that replaced is simpler than the

original operation. I am sure there are other complications that come

into play like the bone near the metal joint. I don't know about

that. Also in that length of time you know there well be new

technology. Look how much TKR and THR as changed in the last 20

years. Ask your doctor what part of the joint are they finding wears

out and does the whole joint need to be replaced. Maybe someone on

the board could tell us there experience of having a joint repaired

after a number of years due to wear.

Ask you doctor if he uses cement or not. Both have there pros and

cons. I am having a TKR in December without cement. Not using cement

means one thing that could be a problem will not be their. The con of

no cement is that the bone must grow into the new joint this takes

time and post injury can effect the outcome. However once the bone

has grown properly it is as strong if not stronger than the cement

joint. Some people are allergic to the cement (not sure the %).

Hope this helps

Don

PS Here is a book that I on others have mentioned before;

" Total Knee Replacement and Recovery "

By Dr. Brugioni MD and Dr. Jeff Falkel Ph.D, PT.

Get it on Amazon or your local book store, worth its weight in gold IMHO.

[Guest guest]

i agree with jennifer about trying to get your knees done after you have tried all else at an age younger than some of the orthos want to do it.... i just turned 50 and basically started to have trouble with the first knee at age 14.... by the time i was 40 both knees were just bone on bone and i had tons of arthritis in there and at this point basically no caps at all. i had the injections, the synvisc, the therapy many times over, everything might help for a bit but not for long and most of the time not at all.... i was unable to climb any stairs and at this point was in so much pain could not even walk any distance. now at 50 i really did not want to even think about another 10 years of that -- i would definately be in a wheelchair way before that -- i am young enough now to still enjoy a lot of things -- at 60 who knows if i'll be healthy enough to do those things -- so why not get them fixed now and enjoy the next 10 years.... i truly believe my doctor just wanted to try every avenue he could before doing the surgery, but i finally went in and told him look i have just had enough -- i want my life back -- he knew i was ready and agreed to do it. i am 3 weeks post TKR on my right knee and i could have the other done at any time, but am planning to wait until around March to have it done as I have fibromyalgia and some other health issues so i really want this leg to heal well before i do the other one. i just cannot imagine another 10 years of the pain i have been in -- that is not a good way to live as far as i am concerned. and i feel if you truly believe that you need to have it done at 50 or a little earlier you should talk to several different orthos and see what they all say. take care, alice

[Guest guest]

Aussie -- how long ago was the double TKR? (Note how subtle I am in not saying "How old are you now?") Really I'm asking how long they lasted and when they started to go bad, what was it (or were they) that went bad?

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]



Me too. I hope you not only get the fix paid for, but lost work time, pain & suffering, etc.

I had a partial lateral meniscectomy in my left knee in June & it's never stopped hurting, right there in the lateral joint, as if he never did anything (but I saw the video, so I know he did). I keep bringing it up, and he keeps ignoring me. I don't get why he ignores me (other than trying to avoid a malpractice suit, but that kind of thing just makes you want to sue them).

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee> > > > > > My questions to the group are:> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKR> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age people> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patient> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to be> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone here> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related> long term success and/or problems?> > Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow. > The Will of God will never take you to where the Graceof God will not protect you.

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 10/27/2006 4:16:31 P.M. Central Standard Time, pudgyaunt99@... writes:

i just cannot imagine another 10 years of the pain i have been in -- that is not a good way to live as far as i am concerned. and i feel if you truly believe that you need to have it done at 50 or a little earlier you should talk to several different orthos and see what they all say. take care, alice

Alice, the first ortho I talked to at the same group of Drs. told me that if I had my TKR's before I was 50 that it would be a catastrophe. He also said I was fat. Don't like him anymore. My other Dr. saw that it was bone on bone and gave me no trouble.

[Guest guest]

There's a LOT of difference between most of the brands and the DePuy rotating platform knees (http://www.jointreplacement.com/xq/ASP.default/pg.list/list_id.40/mn.local/newFont.1/joint_id.6/joint_nm.Knee/local_id.36/nav./qx/default.htm . There's also the Zimmer knee that's made for women, http://12.31.56.76:8500/ctl?template=PC & template=PC & op=global & action=1 & id=9435 . Knee implants are made of different materials -- most use cobalt-chromium, but one company uses a metal ceramic called zirconium, http://www.voteoxinium.com/1000_patientinfo.html . Then there are cemented vs. cementless. There's enough difference out there that it warrants research before you choose an OS.

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

Suzy:To answer your question about brand. Near as I can figure there isnot much difference between them. Also you don't have a whole lot ofchose because it is the doctors descision so if you want a specificbrand you will need to shop for a doctor. I would guess thequalifications of the doctor are more important that the product.In the case of knees, there are metalic (variouse metals) parts andthe plastic cushion between them. The metal if very very hard andhighly polished. The plastic is the same type that is in skateboardwheels (very very tough). Over the years it is the plastic thatdeforms or wears out. Having that replaced is simpler than theoriginal operation. I am sure there are other complications that comeinto play like the bone near the metal joint. I don't know aboutthat. Also in that length of time you know there well be newtechnology. Look how much TKR and THR as changed in the last 20years. Ask your doctor what part of the joint are they finding wearsout and does the whole joint need to be replaced. Maybe someone onthe board could tell us there experience of having a joint repairedafter a number of years due to wear.Ask you doctor if he uses cement or not. Both have there pros andcons. I am having a TKR in December without cement. Not using cementmeans one thing that could be a problem will not be their. The con ofno cement is that the bone must grow into the new joint this takestime and post injury can effect the outcome. However once the bonehas grown properly it is as strong if not stronger than the cementjoint. Some people are allergic to the cement (not sure the %).Hope this helpsDonPS Here is a book that I on others have mentioned before;"Total Knee Replacement and Recovery"By Dr. Brugioni MD and Dr. Jeff Falkel Ph.D, PT.Get it on Amazon or your local book store, worth its weight in gold IMHO.

[Guest guest]

Ann S

ask away we have nothing to hide here

I was 30 when I had the Bil TKR

I've had rheumatoid arthritis for 20 years

I had problems with my knees from about 26 years old and like everybody else tried everything to get rid of pain and swelling

When they got to bone on bone TKR at 30 was the only answer and I have never looked back

They lasted 10 years and may have lasted longer If I had sat at home and done my knitting but I have managed to work in nursing in public and private hospital on a full time/ part time basis ever since

I also have a 13 year old who was 3 at the time of the original TKR

I also have a pretty busy life so I probably wore them out

Now I am 40 and had the R one replaced because the bone was no longer supporting the prosthesis and it had fractured the tibia

It was like a stress fracture or pathological fracture of the tibia because a cyst in my knee ruptured and blew out the wall of the tibia

Apparently not common but not uncommon either

Now I am 8 weeks post op and doing really well

I have been back at work for 4 weeks ( I work 24 hours a week ) and am looking to get some extra work to try and fund another holiday (because I hurt, broke my leg on our last holiday)

Aussie

-- Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

Aussie -- how long ago was the double TKR? (Note how subtle I am in not saying "How old are you now?") Really I'm asking how long they lasted and when they started to go bad, what was it (or were they) that went bad?

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]

Thanks for your detailed answer. Wow! A cyst blew out your tibia! I tell ya. I've learned about more horrors in this group than in any other I've been in, even one for depression!

So your bone is good enough further down to support another implant? I hope so & wish you total success. You've had enough trouble!!

Do you take chondroitin & glucosamine? I have a 2nd-cousin-in-law with RA. She's in her 40's. She claims that C & G "cured" her. She's a nurse, so it's not like she's an airhead about it.

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]

, I swim with a woman who is in her early 60s and has lost 150 pounds since her TKT, about ten years ago. Her weight destroyed her knees, but surgery gave her a second chance, and she took it. Her case is extreme. How many of are as dedicated to disciplined exercise and dieting. Her only problem now is that she is addicted to shopping the cloting sales because it's the first time in her adult life she feels pretty in clothes. Ideally, I would have like to have lost weight before my surgery, but like my swimming buddy, I couldn't get my activity high enough with those sad old knees. Seven weeks post-op, I'm losing weight -- probably because of my reduced appetite. But my new knees have given me new confidence in myself. Also, I'm very motivated to lose so I can preserve these knees as long as possible. I'm getting ready to go the pool now for physical therapy and a

work out for the rest of my body. I still have to be careful -- recovery is moving slowly for me. I think it's great you're working out and send you all my encouragement. It's a jumpstart. And just think what you will be able to do after surgery and rehab. I am appalled that a doctor would call you fat. What an absolute, unprofessional jerk! He does not deserve your respect, trust or money, but a good kick in the shins, but I guess that would be assault and could get you in trouble. And we want you to direct all your energy in a positive way -- to getting fit and healthy. Let's wish each other well. I keep seeing myself with my new grandchild due in April. New strong knees, and if I keep working hard, a thinner me. Wish me luck. Donna My very best, Donna Critrkrazy@... wrote: In a message dated 10/27/2006 4:16:31 P.M. Central Standard Time, pudgyaunt99aol writes: i just cannot imagine another 10 years of the pain i have been in -- that is not a good way to live as far as i am concerned. and i feel if you truly believe that you need to have it done at

50 or a little earlier you should talk to several different orthos and see what they all say. take care, alice Alice, the first ortho I talked to at the same group of Drs. told me that if I had my TKR's before I was 50 that it would be a catastrophe. He also said I was fat. Don't like him anymore. My other Dr. saw that it was bone on bone and gave me no trouble.

Everyone is raving about the all-new .

[Guest guest]



Yes, I have different surgeon.

Sherry

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee> > > > > > My questions to the group are:> 1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKR> until one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it better> about his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lasting> about 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age people> do not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patient> tends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the> 10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.> Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.> the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to be> too active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone here> want to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any related> long term success and/or problems?> > Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow. >The Will of God will never take you to where the Graceof God will not protect you.

[Guest guest]

I had a friend who died from that stuff because it came

from imported beef that had CJD.

Sherry

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]

Well, that's pretty scary. I hadn't heard of anyone dying from bad-source chondroitin/glucosamine. Was it proven that that was what she died of? CJ disease takes quit a while to develop to the point of killing you.

Ann S.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]

About 7 years. It was proven through autopsy but she actually committed suicide a couple years after she was diagianosed and was very ill and in horrible pain.

Sherry

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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[Guest guest]

How did they know it was the chondroitin/glucosamine? I haven't heard of any recalls.

Ann A.

Re: TKR, age, possible infection in new knee

My questions to the group are:1) both docs I've seen are very concerned about waiting to do a TKRuntil one is at least 60. I am 55. this doc explained it betterabout his worries for me. He said they see the new knees lastingabout 10-15 yrs. in patients 60 and older because at that age peopledo not move or turn as fast as younger patients. The older patienttends to sit more also and this is what allows the TKR to last the10-15 yrs. In younger patients, they see them wearing out sooner.Then if they have to go in a 2nd time, the results aren't as good.the TV ads advertising TKR are misleading because if you try to betoo active, you will shorten the live of your new knee. Anyone herewant to respond who's had a TKR or known someone and any relatedlong term success and/or problems?Hi, I'm 46 and have had both of my knees done. They didn't want to do them until I was at least 50 but I was going to end up in a wheel chair. Mine started when I was 26 and I went through all of the injections, arthroscopies, etc. I'm very glad that I had them done. Heck, you could get hit by a car tomorrow.

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