Tuesday, Nov. 12. was my four month checkup for TKR of. left knee. Dr. Congiusta asked if it was better than before. I said yes. I said there had been no pain at all in the knee, only minor pain in the lower shin and foot, and some numbness in the heel which has mostly resolved. His assessment of the ROM showed 107 degrees, which is a little short of the 115 they aim for. At P.T., the therapist tested the ROM at 121 degrees, but Dr. C. said he doesn't apply any pressure, a pain-free measurement. When I asked if there was still time to improve the ROM, he said most progress usually occurs in the first few months, but it may be possible to increase it, to continue my exercises.
Since he had told me before that after about 15 to 20 years or so, the plastic deteriorates or melds into the bone or something, I asked if that process would be incremental, constantly progressing, and he said no, that the patient usually doesn't even know, and that's why they take X-rays every year or two. He said the materials are constantly improving and last longer, and mine will probably not need replacing. (I wonder why!) I said what if I come back in 20 years and he's retired. He said he'll be here---he has kids and college to think about. He said he was glad that I was doing so well, and to return for one-year follow up in July, 2015. Summertime!
( It's been four months since anyone besides the surgeon has looked at, or even asked about, my knee, and that's pretty cursory if you have no problem. I think my TKR has set a record for generating the least amount of attention. I am so blessed.)
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