recurring pain months after microfracture procedure
I had microfracture procedure on my knee in August of 2000. There were three areas of major articular cartilage damage: the medial condyle, lateral condyle and trochlear groove. The damage was a result of an earlier ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair in 1991. After 6 weeks on a CPM and crutches, I started stationary bike and leg lifts, etc. For the first few weeks post- CPM, I felt pretty good and continued to progress. However, about the end of November, the progress went downhill rapidly. At this point, Jan., I can only use the stationary bike with very little resistance. I have a hard time walking downhill, uphill, nor can I manage any weight with leg lifts. My OS told me that the fibrocartilage may have some unevenness and I will need to have it smoothed out. I am really concerned that this procedure didn't work for me and now what. I know that OATs is a possibillity but the Dr. is worried that I don't have enought good areas to accomplish this. What else can be done? Obviously, my age and my fear don't suggest TKR. Activity is difficult and I have spent my life skiing, running, golfing, and playing tennis. My job has been as a flight attendant which makes work impossible. Thank you for any suggestions.
From:
sherwood@cablespeed.com