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Scar tissue after knee replacement

Joint Replacements | Last Active: Apr 22 9:03am | Replies (1521)
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@timb

Hi. New to group. I had TKR 18 months ago. Doc put wrong sized implant in and new doc did revision. Correct sized implant in now, but 6 months post op and lots of scar tissue. Knee is constantly swollen and stiff. ROM is good, 125 and 0 degrees on extension. But the scar tissue is causing the swelling. It's rubbing on tissue and causing bleeding. Most is above the knee and caused by the quad tendon being cut and repaired numerous times. Had 40cc's drained off and it was red, fresh bleeding. Knee still looks terrible. Cannot see kneecap or any definition. New doc says only hope is arthroscopic scar tissue removal surgery. This will be my 7th surgery on that knee. Can't decide if the risk of scar tissue returning is worth it. Any similar stories????

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Replies to "Hi. New to group. I had TKR 18 months ago. Doc put wrong sized implant in..."
dduke | @dduke | May 18, 2019

I had arthroscopic scar tissue removal surgery and it helped tremendously. Because it is done arthroscopically, there is less chance of scar tissue returning than open surgery.

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Debbra Williams, Alumna Mentor | @debbraw | May 19, 2019

hI @timb - Welcome to Connect! I am so sorry to hear of all the problems you have had with your knee replacement. I can imagine that it must be terribly discouraging and scary. I'm glad you are signed in on this thread. I know there have been a number of members who have commented on problems with scar tissue, difficulties with MUA's and other complications. I'm going to tag a few members to see if they can share any insight on the arthroscopic scar tissue removal: @JustinMcClanahan, @doodles418 and @babette . Also, here is an article that might help:
https://www.healthline.com/health/total-knee-replacement-surgery/arthrofibrosis#outlook
With that much swelling, it's interesting that you still have great ROM! How is your pain? and your mobility? I can imagine that it must be affecting your ability to go about your normal activities.

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JK | @contentandwell | May 26, 2019

Hi @timb and welcome to the group. I am sorry to hear of all the problems you have had with your knee. Your ROM is great but being in pain with a stiff and swollen knee is not good.
I have not had to have scar tissue removed, but I may have some there. My ROM is not what I would like it to be. I am in no pain though and getting along fine with about 115 flex so I am planning to leave it alone. Have you discussed the probability of scar tissue returning with your new doctor? Of course if the probability is high it would definitely have a negative impact on your decision.
I am interested in hearing what the new doctor says about the scar tissue and if it will probably return. I would think if the probability is high that they would not bother removing it at all.
JK

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