I’m scheduled for knee replacement but read so many negatives ?

I had mine done a little over 10 years ago and I am so happy I did. Both knees 6 weeks apart. Husband is going in at the end of August. Just remember most seeking answers are struggling. Choose your doctor carefully and follow what they tell you. I couldn't even stand to cook without pain. They aren't like the originals but they are pretty darn good.

Along with myself having both TKR knees done a year apart, I know of at least four other acquaintances or family members that have had at least one TKR per person. None regret their choice and are happy or at least content with the results. As with any surgery, there is a small chance that something may go wrong either during surgery or the healing process and if you are that person, the majorities good results are of no consolation.

Going into surgery knowing exactly what will be done to you, and what the self-care recovery steps and PT will be like is important. I would be suspicious of any ortho office that does not give out detailed printed material for the patient to take home as well as verbal instructions. Our local ortho department requires pre-surgery attendance at a 1-2 hour TKR/THR presentation given by hospital staff of anesthiologist, surgical nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, which covers the surgery steps and timeline and home prep and recovery. Tips on making life easier in dressing etc. They encouraged lots of questions, presentations are scheduled several times a month in the evenings. But even if your surgeon's office is skimpy with info, it's still up to the individual to check for info on reputable medical websites which offer relevant preparation info online if you take the trouble to search for it.

Just make sure you have PT and definitely do your exercises at home. I made the mistake of not doing home exercises and now don’t have a 120 bend. Pick a doctor that does robotic surgery.

@dsmit8 I would make sure to investigate robotic surgery. Especially if you have osteoporosis.

@andoman You’re doing everything right and if you follow the post surgery therapy routine, you can be optimistic about an excellent outcome. Although my post TKR experience hasn’t been good, i believe it’s an anomaly. Life has risks, but you have every chance of success. Let us know how it goes! Sending you good thoughts.

I had knee surgery 16 months ago. I get around better than before my surgery. I recommend that you do therapy and it is very important to do your home exercises. Both before and after the surgery. Good luck on your surgery.

@cmd74 thanks. I had mine done, 2019 & 2020.

My surgeon used a “zipper” tape to close the outside of incision. It was the most bizarre thing I’ve seen. I don’t believe it’s used anymore.
I’d post a picture, but it might scare people.

@lauracbaker
Medicare for all as an option takes care of that. If one cares about medical equity.

I am 78 years old. I have read and talked to several people about tkr. The continuing theme I am getting is success is very much dependent on age. Younger people heal better and faster for sure!

Why are you scheduled for TKR?
I couldn’t walk around the block with so much pain. I tried nerve ablation then consulted about Genicular artery embolism but bone was already deformed so I had the TKR April 2025. Yes it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done and gone through but I’m able to Zumba! I’ve been in touch with a doctor about a future clinical study for - well - Google Stanford university and shot for knee cartilage