Multiple knee issues at age 58: Do I need knee replacement?

I have a torn medial meniscus, a Grade 1 sprain of collatoral ligament, TRI-compartmental chondromalacia & joint effusion, synovisis & apop...(?) (Cell death.) in right knee based on MRI. I'm 58. Have travel plans this year. Can I wait until next year to get total knee replacement, which I am betting I need?

[Heidisong]

Oh well....I had the surgical consult...& "only" need an Arthroscopy surgery,  so I'm going ahead with it very soon...this month. Doc thinks that when the medial meniscus tear is taken out, it will improve the accompanying issues... Also: I do NOT have apoptosis, as I thought I heard on phone. That word was popliteal cyst. Doesn't sound good, but Doctor can take care of that from the Arthroscopy surgery also. Any one familiar with these issues? I've been told it's a very short "recovery" time, and official rehab isn't even usually indicated. (I imagine just getting back gradually to "regular" activities & walking. ?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, it would be difficult to comment specifically on the situation without knowing the relevant clinical details such as the extent of the tear, associated injuries/ complications, type of repair planned etc; though arthroscopic surgeries usually has a fast recovery within a few days/ weeks. I would suggest discussing the situation, the suggested management plan and the expected prognosis in detail with the treating orthopedician.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!

[Heidisong]

Thank you, DrKaul. When I go this Friday, to the PRE-surgery exam/q&a time, I will be asking specifically: "prognosis"....& several other questions. I "pray" that I will be able to get back to my regular activities. I am NOT by any means athletic, but I have enjoyed long walks & some cardio on bicycle & eliptical. ....I really need to be able to get back in shape a month (or whenever) AFTER the surgery, at the time the surgeon indicates. I have some trepidation about the whole surgery, but without it...with no surgery, my injuried knee & other issues will only get worse...certainly not better.