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Fused leg knee removed due to infection

Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: Aug 17 12:35pm | Replies (17)

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@jasonh6

Hello, not sure if you are still looking for help as this was a few years ago. I have a fused right leg resulting from a gunshot wound to my knee suffered when I was 8 years old. I am currently 39 and just had my 31st anniversary of my accident. Living with a fused knee for over 3 decades has been a very difficult and interesting situation and one I’ve felt that only I knew what it was like. It is usually made worse by the fact that nobody understands what it’s like to live with the many problems associated with not being able to bend one leg. My situation is even more troubling as I am over 6’2” tall and have very long legs; to the point where I had to get my growth plates removed from my good knee to stop it from growing. While growing up it was all about adapting to my situation and not letting it affect my life. By my 30s I started having major back, hip, and left knee issue from the many years of being out of alignment and other knee compensating for the lack of a right knee. I have been looking for the same things you detailed in your post for almost 10 years! Nobody seems to understand. I am currently looking at trying a knee fusion reversal surgery (which I doubt I’m even eligible for) or amputation ( as most amputees don’t even have the issues I have in life). I just wanted you to know I feel your pain! I am in constant pain every moment of my life; even sleep doesn’t help as my body continues to have extreme muscle spasms while sleeping :/ I also feel like I have to advocate for everything in life on my own. It’s frustrating! I have done an extensive amount of research about programs and funding available for those that have a fused knee. I was able to get myself on Social Security Disability without a lawyer, have looked into vehicle modifications to be able to drive more comfortably, and am currently looking into Home buying on disability and obtaining a service dog. There is so much more I could list but just wanted to let you know there are others who have the same issue, and have been dealing with it for a long time. I am willing to help in any way I can do that you don’t feel as alone as I have trying to navigate through this medical issue that truly affects every aspect of our lives. Jason

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Replies to "Hello, not sure if you are still looking for help as this was a few years..."

@jasonh6 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect, a place to give and get support.

You have gone through and continue to go through pain and frustration related to the injury you received as a child.

It sounds like you have a lot of information and support to give and you are extremely savvy.

Is there a particular hospital or surgeon you would suggest for this particular issue?

Hi Jason,
I developed a bone infection in my knee following a motorcycle accident and a reaction to the internal metal screws and plates about two years ago. It's been a nightmare and now I'm looking at the knee fusion operation. I was also told that in about a year I MIGHT be eligable for a knee replacement. Knee fusion or amputation seems to be my only two options left. What have been your day to day complications?