1 in 5 patients are unhappy post surgery following a knee replacement

[2Old2Tango]

I've just been put on the list for knee replacement surgery. The pain I have from osteoarthritis gets worse all the time and it badly affects my quality of life.

The consultant was very open about the risks of surgery and he said 1 in 5 patients are unhappy following surgery as they're still in pain. 20% is a high number.

Anyone here had full or partial replacement? What has been your experience. Keen to hear from those who are unhappy whether they regret the choice of having the operation.

I had a partial knee replacement in my forties and it was the best thing I ever did, no regrets at all. I was on crutches and my mobility was pain was terrible. My knee isn't as good as it was before and I don't like kneeling on it as it's a bit numb. I don't jog or twist (dance or sport) but that's fine with me. The recovery is difficult and extremely painful, lots of physio. BUT 100% recommendation you go for it xx

I had a total knee replacement last year. I believe the 20% dissatisfaction figure is worldwide and UK figures are rather better: '...patients undergoing knee replacements were asked .... "Overall, how are the problems now compared to before your operation?" 75.0% of patients said they felt much better after the operation compared to before and 15.0% feeling a little better. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/patient-reported-outcome-measures-proms/finalised-hip--knee-replacements-april-2018---march-2019/success-satisfaction#knee-replacements

...with only around 5% saying they felt a little or a lot worse. A major factor in a successful outcome is doing all the post-op exercises, to rebuild strength and mobility. I suspect a proportion of the unhappy 5% didn't do them, and paid the price. Recovery seems to improve in 3 week stages (first 3 weeks can be difficult), but once you make it to the three month mark, the future looks much brighter.

You can also look your surgeon up to get an idea of their personal success rate: surgeonprofile.njrcentre.org.uk/SurgeonListing

After several years of increasing pain and declining mobility, I'm very glad I had mine done.

Had one last November, absolutely fine now. I cleaned the kitchen windows yesterday, kneeling on the counter, needed a cushion to kneel on as granite not very forgiving. I'm 76 and can walk a couple of miles without problems. You will feel sore, but keep doing the exercises, good luck.

Thanks for this. I looked my surgeon up and thankfully looks like I have a good one.

It’s usually very to do with the patient and how they were before.
I’ve had several obese depressed patients who tell me everything is related to their knee pain, get the surgery and wonder why their obesity and depression still exist.

Aim for the strongest healthiest body before surgery, do the rehab and probably a pinch of luck tbh are all required.

My Mum (81) had hers done earlier in the year, she still doesn't have full bend in it (but I think that's age & possibly not continuing with the exercises (that hurt!!), she's still increasing the distance she walks (pre surgery she walked quite a distance every day)

it's not like having her younger knee back, but she doesn't regret it & is now looking to book the other one in!!