Houston... we have a problem

[MakoMike]

Originally Posted by nightfighter

MakoMike, I get where you are coming from. But if we were to have been in normal times, I firmly believe I would have likely pressed this issue (arthroscope) a year ago. I don't know what the percentages are, but lets just say they are 50/50. Half get a knee replacement and have immediate relief from pain and are resuming their daily life in 6 months, telling all it is the best thing they ever did... And then there is the other half of the knee replacement population, of which I am one. First, let me say much respect to anyone who has had a joint replacement. It is pretty amazing technology. Despite my prolonged journey to get here, I am pleased to have a diagnosis and hopefully a quick recovery after the scope. The work on my part will be the PT. If there was a way to limit the body from producing scar tissue, that would be awesome. Unfortunately, it is part of the healing process and doesn't have an on/off switch.
So if you are in pain and are considering a knee replacement, I still would say go for it. Just be aware that there may well be a need for future surgical procedures to fine tune the inner working of the new knee. I did not have an infection. I did the work. It just didn't heal the way I was hoping. I want to be able to trust the leg when I walk. I don't currently. But I am free of the arthritis and the bone on bone. And that is a big thumbs up when I wake up on a damp rainy day... Plus, I quit a forty year smoking habit.

My kids are pushing me together the replacement. I have had arthroscopy on both knees already and from what I understand its a piece of cake compared to the replacement surgery. I'm going to start to seriously look into it when I get back, but I won't have surgery before next winter.