Knee replacement with chemical sensitivities

[skyyblues4now]

I am in need of a TKR but I have chemical sensitivities, especially to formaldehyde.  Has anyone with chemical allergies had a TKR or any other type of surgery?  The thought of being exposed during and after surgery scares me more than the TKR itself!!  I already had one doc use Synvisc to try to postpone the TKR and I am still breaking out with exzema from the formaldehyde in it.  I have an appt with a surgeon at a teaching hospital in mid June and am hoping they will welcome a freak to learn from?!?!?!

Thanks for any help!!
skyyblues

[evaluator]

i am another freak who needs a second tkr.i'm holding off for fear of itching for another 2 years after the surgery.i wheeze constantly and know its from the implant.conventional docs (nyu etc)deny it but they are wrong.a rash started at the site 6 weeks post op and spread over my entire body(hives).no explanations from the mainstream. i'm not surprised. keep searching for an alternate solution. please let me know.
ever the skeptic

[skyyblues4now]

Thank you for letting me know I am not alone!!  It just is hard when even doctors do not put much thought to my allergy.  That is why I have an appt at a teaching hospital.  The more I search and investigate the more alone I feel.  My allergy is rare and it is in so many products that the thought of being cut open and exposed is at times terrifying.  The pain in my leg and my quality of life these days is the only reason I am even considering the knee replacement.  I also feel bad for feeling this way as I know there are many out there who are worse off than me!  I guess I should just put my pity party on hold and be grateful for what I have.

Thanks for taking the time to respond to me, it means alot.  Freaks of a feather!!

skyyblues - Live Well, Laugh Often, and Love Much!!!

[txsilver]

You are not a freak - that or you are among freaks and that makes you normal :)  I can totally understand your concerns.  I can't imagine going through a knee replacement only to find you are in misery because of your chemical sensitivities.  
I would suggest you talk to you doctor about your concerns and ask him what options are available.  Perhaps a vendor has a product better suited to those with sensitivities to formaldehyde.  Maybe you would be a candidate for resurfacing instead of replacement?