Knee replacements?

Question

I need a double knee replacement operation, but doctors in the UK are reluctant to carry this out on the grounds of my age, arguing that I would be likely to need the replacements themselves replaced twice if I live to average UK life expectancy. The doctors are working on the assumption that replacement knees have only a ten year lifespan, but I have heard of people having replacements which are still going strong after 15 years.

Can anyone who has had one or both knees replaced (or a surgeon with joint replacement experience) give me details of the type of replacement recieved, the manufacturer and your experiences since the operation. I would be very interested in hearing from anybody who has recieved Japanese titanium knees which I have anecdotely heard good reports about.

In response to Sissybug, I'm 49. Where are you from and do you know the manufacturer of your knee (hoping it does last 30 years)?

Answer 1

The Dr. will want to hold off based on age. I worked for the largest Knee Co. Zimmer. Look at this way. If your going to have to replace your knee in the future would you rather do it when you 65 or 75? Knees are lasting up into 15-20yrs. now. One other thing regarding Titanium knees they are good, but nothing compared to the Trabecular Metal Knee by Zimmer. Plus all my surgeons basically used it on all patients under the Age 55. Because of it's longevity, durability, and quick bonie ingrowth which gives you the ultimate way to secure a knee. In the USA there is no Cement needed for the Trabacular Metal knee. Your Titanium kneed will most likely be cemented.. Even if you Dr. doesn't use Zimmer products you can request it. The Rep's are always in the room it doesn't matter what company you use. FYI since your young, I'd ask you DR. to make sure you use Cruciate Retaining. I don't know your condition, but based on your age there really shouldn;t be a reason to remove your Cruciate retaining Ligament.Of Course he'll decide once he opens you up. If the extension and flexion is not there then he'll probably remove it. BUT make sure you ask!! With your age you'll want to use the Primary Porus Patella Trabecular MEtal. Usually surgeons will replace the Patella while operating. It's up to them once they open the knee and see the condition. I could use 10pts.

Answer 2

I agree with many of the points made by nettle. If it's going to affect your quality of life and you cannot participate in a normal, healthy lifestyle due to your knee pain, there is no reason to "wait until you're older." What is the point of waiting until you can longer walk or exercise and now you've become deconditioned, developed heart disease and obesity? Then you become a higher surgical risk. I see no point of leaving a 49 year old person physically disabled due to the prospect of future revision. I have had patients as young as 42 undergo a successful knee replacement.

If, however, you can still participate in fitness and light recreational activity and have an adequate quality of life, then certainly one may wish to reconsider joint replacement until those things have become limited.

Again, to reiterate Nettle's point: If you are definetely in need of revision somewhere down the road...do it when you are 65 instead of 75...and by then the replacement will continue to improve...by the time you hit 80 or 85, revision might not even be something you wish to consider anyway.

Answer 3

I am 55 and just had one done last July. I am recupping well. I was back to work (I drive a school bus) in 7 1/2 weeks. But it may take as long as 9 months for ALL the swelling to go down. I still have some.

I have know people with both done at the same time and are doing fantastic. I was told mine would last about 30 yrs. I said, ummm 55 + 30=85 OK.....I'll do it. Some I have known to be in their 70's and had them done and done very well. You will to

You didn't specify your age----Good Luck

Answer 4

My uncle had both knees replaced when he was in his mid-40's. About 14 years later he had them done again (about 3 years ago). He was in discomfort for a few weeks but is now very active and go sailing every weekend on his own. I want to give advice on this and your doctor will know best but is it the end of the world to have them replaced again in 10-15 years if it means that you will have that time with greater mobility and less pain?

Answer 5

Please look for a sports doctor they are the only one who can fix your knee. I had knee replacement operation over 20 year ago by a doctor who was with the Cincinnati Ben gel football team. And I am walking and working out, and I have been a professional bodybuilder for 20 year's after my operation.

Answer 6

the criteria on the Apollo scientific institution in Colombo are severe. The kit is sweet and the medical doctors and surgeons tend to be knowledgeable overseas. i think of it is probable a better option than India. you will get a brochure online. the vast earnings is that folk in Sri Lanka usually talk English, while in Thailand they do no longer.

Answer 7

my grandad had this operation last year and hes 80 now. He's fine now and a few months after his operation he was running after buses again!!!!!!!!!! its done him the world of good! good luck :)

Answer 8

See website: BoneSmart.org

Answer 9

Come to Thailand to have your operation. Its much cheaper than private in the UK and you can have a holiday at the same time.....

Answer 10

Thanks for asking I to am facing this. And the response to your question may help me also.