Wow Silverghost,
I hope greatly that you remain strong in your recovery and continue to heal with no complications.  You are correct in your statements re: aftercare.  I meet with the doc in the morning to discuss next steps.  I too, wish that I had opted for a TKR at this point.. Being so young, I don't regret taking a chance at cadaver allografts .  It is just heart-wrenching and a ton of recovery work.  After almost 2 years of recovery, it takes its toll and I'm very strong mentally. 

We do have to be our own advocates when regarding aftercare/protocols.  It is hard when the longterm research is not yet established for these fairly new procedures (less than 20yrs).  These transplants are still considered radically risky.  I wish you the best and keep us posted.  I'm trying to stay positive and hoping that my insurance company does not deny the next procedure.  Claims of approximately $85K have been paid/filed over the last 15 months.  At some point I would expect that my carrier would deny due to malpratice (poor physician diagnosis) which is a situation that I'm not prepared for emotionally.  I do not want any trouble and negative stress, rebuilding our broken bodies is difficult enough.  Hang in there and keep doing the best you can! 

Hi Kikko

Not sure on the exact measurement but they state 'significant'varus alignment to warrant osteotomy...

i think its based on whther they can actually site the new meniscus, i had to have my joint parted by HTO to enable this.  I didnt realise my leg was so bowed until i actually saw the scans!

All i can say is the transplant is hard work really consider the options I certainly would not have jumped at it knowing now what i have been through and am still going through!

Good luck whatever they/u decide on!

Any news from your docs visit colorado?

SG

Week 8

I have been back at work for the past two weeks, which feels great!  My job involves being on my feet most of the day with customer service, so being on crutches is obviously not ideal.  The other challenge is swelling/inflammation from being on my feet, and while it does not hurt, it hinders range of motion for the rest of the day.  I am not back full time yet but will be next week.  Driving is going fine, and I started around week 7.  I am not as aggressive as I normally am, but it's better that way to urge on the side of caution for safety!

I began physical therapy at week 6 and have been going 2x/week with a third day by myself.  My hip strength and overall flexibility is improving.  My quad contractions are more powerful making my knee feel more stable.  While I have not done much at all, weight bearing seems like it will take time for sure.  I am able to do calf raises comfortably, but the partial squats are challenging at this point.  While I don't feel pain, the lack of stability along with the swelling are obstacles that need to be overcome before the confidence comes around.  Overall though, my comfort levels have improved.  I am wearing a functional knee brace while I'm out on my feet, and there is a noticeable difference in comfort over the last two weeks.  In regards to my range of motion, 0-60 is no problem now but 90+ still is difficult.  I think I may have maxed out at 110 degrees most recently.  Most of this swelling issues remaining are from the metal plate removal from my HTO.  All around the major incision (8in) there is swelling.  Once that heals, then I'll be in good shape.  I'm thinking it will take another 4 weeks to see a major improvement.

Having more comfort, being back at work, and rehab/strength training all have me feeling incredible mentally.  I am extremely thankful to be at this point post-surgery but do realize there is a lot of work ahead.  This recovery is much longer than my previous surgeries, and your patience is truly tested.  Always be smart, listen to your body, and exercise a positive and optimistic outlook.  I cannot wait until I can get off crutches and begin walking.  Hopefully an early Christmas present!  Looking forward to a better year in 2013!

I appreciate everyone's interest and support.

Joel

Thanks AggieCatcher! Hope everything is going well for you and holding up!

Week 12

At this point, despite the slow progress, there has been steady improvements in functionality weekly.  For the past week, I've been doing my best to ween off my last crutch.  Even though I'm not quite there yet, I have been able to 'walk' without any crutches for short stretches.  Due to the long recovery period, I am in no rush, so I'd rather err on the side of caution than anything!

I am currently in physical therapy 1x/week but workout my lower body an additional 2x/week.  My range of motion has finally broke through, and I'm probably in the range of 120-130 degrees ROM.  There is still some slight swelling and stiffness, but it's not nearly as bad as just 2-3 weeks ago.  I tend to wear my unloading brace when I'm off crutches, particularly when working out around the gym.

Overall, I'm happy with my progress and feeling great!  Staying confident and optimistic is the key, otherwise your patience will start to wear thin!  Looking forward to that 4-6 month marker and increased comfort levels!

Joel