bum knee

I had chrondo-orthoscopic on my knee due to an injury. the injury occurred 2 yrs ago. now I'm post surgery since 6/2/2011 - still have pain. still can't run. any one out there w similar circumstance, and are you recovering.. did you recover completely from such a surgery/injury? Thanks, bum knee guy from california

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

I assume you are referring to an arthroscopic chondroplasty. Recovery may vary between individuals depending on the exact procedure and the type of repair. While the acute phase may last 4-8 weeks, complete recovery may take 4-6 months. Aside the type of repair, recovery is also dependent on other factors such as patients age (younger age has a better prognosis), initial trauma/ extent of injury, nutrition, physiotherapy, presence of complications etc. It would be best to discuss the prognosis in detail with your orthopedician.
Hope this helps.

Take care!

[Bum_Knee]

Thank you for the info. I will discuss w ortho when I re-visit. He did state - the bone is inflamed and has been for some time due to mis-diagnosis from previous doctors after initial accident  - and so it might take longer as the bone was already affected even before surgery. I'm still in pain almost daily - cannot resume any normal activity.

does this sound about right? He did provide me a photo of the bone before surgery and told me he was no longer in doubt about my persistent pain and prescribed vicodin which I donot have the luxury to take, i work, i have a kid, etc..  

Thank you for helping me!

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi again!

I would expect this to get better with time, though it may take longer in a few cases. If unable to take vicodin you may try plain Tylenol or some OTC NSAIDS. These may be helpful in providing relief. Aside the medication I would suggest rest and limb elevation whenever possible. Also factors life adequate nutrition, avoiding smoking etc. are important factors that would help promote healing.
Hope this helps.

Take care!

[Bum_Knee]

Thank you as your reply gives me encouragement!