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Desperately seeking info....
Hi. I'm scheduling to have my other need replaced, just waiting on the date. But I have concerns.
My first knee was done and has never really healed quite right. I went back but the surgeon said the hardware was in place and fine, so they wouldn't go into it any further.
I finally got a different orthopedic to do the second knee. They thought instead of fixing the first since it's not too bad, then get the second done to take the extra weight off the first and that might help.
The first place put in "Vanguard Knee Vivacit-E Highly Crosslinked Polyethylene, Tibial Bearing, Anterior Stabilized". I looked it up and didn't see a whole lot of complaints on it.
The second doctor wants to put in "DePuy Attune RP". I looked up the part online and I just see that the "DePuy Attune" has been associate with an "unusually high early failure rate due to issues with cement adhesion, leading to loosening and instability, with some reports suggesting failure within two years. "
So I'm wondering if anyone has any info to be able to compare these? I can't find any comparisons online.
Supposedly, the DePuy has more stability and better flexibility but what good is that if it really isn't long lasting? I mean, is it really better or is it possible the doctor was just sold a bill of goods? Or are there so many bad listings on it because it's new and not yet proven, like did the other one have the same when it first came out?..........
So now, especially since the first one still has recovery issues a couple of years later, I'm having second thoughts on if I should get the DePuy or just give up.
Anyone have any facts to consider please????
PS. Excess weight has me even concerned about possible early failure, so I really don't know what to do or what the real story is about the hardwares.....
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Sorry to say, it is VERY difficult to find head-to-head comparisons between various joint implant devices. There are many reasons for this - first, the models change very quickly, second the various manufacturers closely guard their innovations to prevent copying, and third EVERY body is different, so the right implant for each person is different.
As for implant failure rates, the DePuy Attune RP does not have a good reputation. I would look to see if any lawsuits have been filed (or settled) regarding any implant recommended to me. About 20 years ago, I had "state of the art" hip implants that later failed and had to be replaced. If I knew when they were placed that people were already having problems with them, I could have saved myself years of pain and revision surgeries. I was naive back then, and didn't believe doctors would be using parts known to fail.
What I would do in your situation is to find an orthopedic surgeon in a large practice who specializes in complex cases - revisions, second implants, and tailoring the treatment to you. Since you mention weight being an issue, I would have an honest conversation with the doctor about exactly how much of a risk it poses, and whether you should try to lose some before trying more surgery.
Have you considered getting a second opinion?
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5 ReactionsThe doctor who want to use DePuy IS the second opinion.
After the first knee done at a teaching hospital/clinic, that knee didn't heal quite well. I have some stabilization issue when my knee reaches a certain point at almost straight, and numbness down the front of my entire leg below the knee up to and including the ankle... not to mention some pain and what feels like it's almost always swollen. And that doc just takes xrays and says the hardware is fine, good bye.
So this second doc was recommended by a neighbor. And now here we are. All I can really do is have someone on the phone with me to help as an advocate to make sure I don't miss any questions or concerns, so I'm trying that this time.
Between both knees, it's just really wearing me out to the point I'm not sure if I should even bother with the second even though it hurts and inhibits my walking.
🙁
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1 ReactionPhysical therapy is first priority.
I have had both knees, hips and shoulders replaced. Go back to doctor to get back to PT
If patients don’t do home exercises it really affects outcome
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6 ReactionsGreat advice Betty B.
Wow, both knees, hips, and shoulders replaced. You are a warrior. I'm getting there. Both knees replaced in 2022, right hip two weeks ago, left shoulder in May. Rehab is the absolute key. It has to become an obsession imo.
Getting older is not for sissies.
Joe
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3 ReactionsHow I always enjoy reading your post ….. your a walking poster child for replacement surgery… you have done amazingly well… but you also work you butt off everyday …..thanks for all you share Joe …. I know for me no surgery going to make me better but exercise may be only thing make me feel somewhat better so that is what I will do …. Joe thanks again for all the
inspiration ….. good luck to everyone in your recovery journey
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2 ReactionsWe're getting off topic. I have done the physical therapy.
My question was regarding the hardware because I don't know if the hardware he wants to use is safe, especially compared to the hardware used in the first knee and considering what I've been reading.
More and more, I'm feeling like I should just cancel the replacement.
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1 ReactionI would very reluctant to use an implant that has had documented problems. Have you had a chance to tell the surgeon that you have researched the problems with that unit and don't feel comfortable with it? If he insists it is safe, I would go to a third doctor for another opinion.
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2 ReactionsThird opinion?
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1 ReactionThanks for the kind words ezas, much appreciated.
I guess I only know one way to approach these joint replacements - arm myself with knowledge about the procedure, ask a lot of questions, do everything suggested by the surgeon, pre-op and post-op, and it has turned out well so far.
I've described it as an obsession, and usually that's bad. Not in this case. We're not getting younger and we have to be our own fountains of youth!
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