leg extension after tkr

[cb226]

It has been 14 months since my tkr.   I don't have full extension of my knee, therefore my leg is shorter and I limp.   This has caused problems with ligaments shortening and heel pain and pain in my right hip.   I did all the exercises dutifully and have been to physical therapy for two extra sessions (each was at least 6 weeks).   I don't know what to do at this point.  I have been told by my surgeon that it is scar tissue (although no one has gone in to see if that really is the problem) and then I was told by a second surgeon that it "might" be a spacer that is too large.   Both surgeons said that going in to take care of the scar tissue would probably make it worse (worse ??).  My tkr knee has always been swollen and bigger than my right knee.

Has anyone had the experience of having scar tissue removed?   Did it work?  

AND - is there any method of looking at what is going on in there.  I've been told that MRI, ultrasound and CT Scans are out because of the metal?  

Thanks so much for your replies.

[cb226]

Thanks Dr. Kaul.    My Orthopedician basically said "sometimes they work out and sometimes they don't"  and summarily dismissed me.   That wasn't a good answer in my opinion and so here I am asking questions wherever I can.  So thank you for your information.   I know that going in to take out the scar tissue is risky, but if it's the only possibility of being able to walk correctly, it might be worth the risk.

Not more than 2 years ago, I was a hiker living by the Rocky Mountains and now I can barely walk a 1/2 mile.

[Littleisland]

I feel your pain friend, I am 6 months post surgery for TKR and cannot walk without a terrible limp. I've been through 2 MUA and 4 months of PT. My leg extension is terrible, trying to see a new Doctor but most want me to wait another 6 months before they see me. I was an avid hunter and offshore fisherman both are in jeopardy. I was never told the outcome could be this bad and becoming difficult to think I will improve, good luck

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

If your issues are indeed due to scar tissue formation, removal may improve your symptoms, though there is always the risk of new scar tissue formation and other risks associated with a surgery. If the deformity isn’t severe, a revision surgery may not be justified. Other than invasive techniques, imaging techniques such as the CT may be performed to get images of the joint, though these would not be as clear as an MRI (Its only an MRI that is contraindicated and not a CT or x-rays). You may like to discuss the situation in detail with your treating orthopedician.
Hope this helps.

Take care!