If you're having a knee replacement please read!

[paulascorpio]

Hi everyone:

I hope I save someone from the pain I am going through and the pain that could come without a simple test. After two years of trying everything from Synvisc, Orthovisc and Stem Cell replacement I finally had a knee replacement July 1, 2014 from a "respected" surgeon.
I was never offered to take prior to my surgery (didn't know about it) a blood test or a patch test to see if I was allergic to the metals in my replacement. Well after 11 months, I have had continuous pain for months and only offered more pain pills. I had my blood sent off to Chicago for testing based on another surgeons request. I tested reactive and highly reactive for all metal except Cobalt.

I have to have a revision because I now have an infection from the metal implant. My existing doctor is a "jerk" and very well known. His staff is cold and uncaring. I only saw my surgeon twice. Once to authorize the surgery and then prior to going in to the surgery theater.
A major problem could be: A lot of doctors do not want to revise another surgeon's work. Also, a lot of surgeons that do replacements do NOT do revisions.

PLEASE get this test done. Even if you think you are not allergic get yourself tested. It will pay off in the end. Don't even think about it, just DO IT!

[NYGUY]

I feel bad that you are going through this. I hope everything works for you!!

[tommy steam]

Get a lawyer.

[paulascorpio]

Tommy......first I have to find a good revision surgeon that will take me. Not all ortho surgeons do revisions and the ones that do, pick their cases carefully. I'd prefer to have ONE day pain free.......than $. I am in more pain now than before the surgery.

[justjim]

Wow! You would think a test like this would be automatic. Best wishes for a solution now that you know what the problem is.

[sunnyatlast]

Hi everyone:

I hope I save someone from the pain I am going through and the pain that could come without a simple test. After two years of trying everything from Synvisc, Orthovisc and Stem Cell replacement I finally had a knee replacement July 1, 2014 from a "respected" surgeon.
I was never offered to take prior to my surgery (didn't know about it) a blood test or a patch test to see if I was allergic to the metals in my replacement.......

PLEASE get this test done. Even if you think you are not allergic get yourself tested. It will pay off in the end. Don't even think about it, just DO IT!

It seems to me that people should also be aware of allergens from donor stem cells and chicken combs in the injected Synvisc, Orthovisc, and stem-cell replacement materials:

"What is Synvisc-One made from?

The injection contains a gel-like mixture made from a substance called hyaluronan (pronounced hy-al-u-ROE-nan) that comes from chicken combs." (Manufacturer link below)

And

"ORTHOVISC® is derived from bacterial cells, not rooster combs or other avian sources. This makes ORTHOVISC® the only non-avian sourced viscosupplementation injection with proven pain relief for up to six months, so patients with avian allergies (like allergies to poultry, feathers or eggs) do not need to worry about an allergic reaction.

ORTHOVISC® is the only injection made from ultra-pure hyaluronan, a naturally occurring lubricant found in healthy joints. In fact, ORTHOVISC® has the highest concentration of hyaluronan among all FDA-approved viscosupplements.
(Manufacturer link below)

And

Stem Cell Replacement Drugs:

"January 24, 2013
(CHICAGO) – Rush University Medical Center is conducting the nation’s first clinical study of an innovative stem cell drug, Cartistem, to repair knee cartilage damaged by aging, trauma or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Cartistem is manufactured from mesenchymal stem cells derived from allogeneic (donor) umbilical cord blood. Umbilical cord blood is a readily accessible source of high-quality stem cells, is associated with minimal health risks and carries relatively few ethical concerns.

The stem cells are mixed with hyaluronan, a natural polymer that plays a major role in wound healing and is a building block of joint cartilage..."



What Is Synvisc-One & How Does the Knee Injection Work? (http://www.synviscone.com/what-is-synvisc-one.aspx)

Benefits of Orthovisc Injections - Orthovisc (http://www.orthovisc.com/orthovisc/benefits?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Brand+-+Orthovisc&utm_term=orthovisc&utm_content=Orthovisc+-+General|mkwid|s5kkCwt57_dc|pcrid|33025971112)

https://www.rush.edu/news/press-releases/rush-researchers-studying-stem-cell-therapy-repair-damaged-knee-cartilage

[mrdarcy]

Call Steve Nguyen, MD. He is a nationally renown orthopedic surgeon who specializes in knee replacements. He practices in the Orlando area. 407-355-3120. He uses a side entry surgical approach that greatly reduces knee replacement recovery time. I personally know 3 Villagers who've had Dr. Nguyen perform their knee replacements. Each of these three patients is absolutely delighted with the results of their surgeries and with the outstanding care they received.

[ryanbaby1016]

Thank you!

[dbussone]

Tommy......first I have to find a good revision surgeon that will take me. Not all ortho surgeons do revisions and the ones that do, pick their cases carefully. I'd prefer to have ONE day pain free.......than $. I am in more pain now than before the surgery.

Try the FL Orthopedic Institute (FOI) in Tampa. As a group they are superb, and most deal with referred patients who need redos or have had a failed surgical procedure.

[Ohio RailGirl]

I recently had both knees replaced by Dr. Nguyen. He gives everyone a metals patch test and recommends the more expensive metals blood test which I did take. Better to be sure you are not allergic to the metals used than to go through what you did. He uses a ceramic coated metal knee if you are allergic to metals. He does revisions as well. I can't believe most doctors do not test for metals allergy. Of all the friends and relatives I know who had total knee replacements none of them were given a metals allergy test.

[784caroline]

In discussing my 2 knee replacements with my Primary Care Dr, he told me that a blood test for allergic reaction to metals is not the normal "standard of care" for a total knee or hip replacement. That is why most Doctors do not even bring it up as an option. Even Dr Nguyen (who did my surgeries) does not REQUIRE the blood test..but he does highly recommend it. I did have it done.

That being the case , and you should double check me on this if a metal test is normal standard of care, it would be difficult to prove a Dr was negligent if he did not require one prior to performing surgery unless of course there were other indicators in a patients medical history that were not uncovered.

[bagboy]

Call Steve Nguyen, MD. He is a nationally renown orthopedic surgeon who specializes in knee replacements. He practices in the Orlando area. 407-355-3120. He uses a side entry surgical approach that greatly reduces knee replacement recovery time. I personally know 3 Villagers who've had Dr. Nguyen perform their knee replacements. Each of these three patients is absolutely delighted with the results of their surgeries and with the outstanding care they received.

She did finally call Dr. Nguyen and it was he who suspected an infection thus resulting in the blood test being done.

[bagboy]

In discussing my 2 knee replacements with my Primary Care Dr, he told me that a blood test for allergic reaction to metals is not the normal "standard of care" for a total knee or hip replacement. That is why most Doctors do not even bring it up as an option. Even Dr Nguyen (who did my surgeries) does not REQUIRE the blood test..but he does highly recommend it. I did have it done.

That being the case , and you should double check me on this if a metal test is normal standard of care, it would be difficult to prove a Dr was negligent if he did not require one prior to performing surgery unless of course there were other indicators in a patients medical history that were not uncovered.

At this time, insurance will not pay for the blood test. That may be why doctors can't or won't absolutely require the test. Dr. Nguyen was my surgeon, and as you say highly recommended the test. My test was negative and my surgery was very successful.

[raynan]

My patch test from Dr. Nguyen was negative but I do react to costume jewelry. On his staff's recommendation I went ahead and did the blood test that was sent to Chicago overnight. It was $285 and not covered by insurance. Thank God I did. I was off the chart for nickel and lower reactions on other metals. My 2 knee replacements scheduled with Dr. Nguyen will be ceramic.

[sunnyatlast]

My patch test from Dr. Nguyen was negative but I do react to costume jewelry. On his staff's recommendation I went ahead and did the blood test that was sent to Chicago overnight. It was $285 and not covered by insurance. Thank God I did. I was off the chart for nickel and lower reactions on other metals. My 2 knee replacements scheduled with Dr. Nguyen will be ceramic.

That is $285 well spent!

But many people will NOT pay anything out of their own pocket. They demand first-dollar coverage, including for when they have shot themselves in the foot by being cheap. They're saving pennies to spend thousands, plus endure long-term agony.

[Villageswimmer]

That is $285 well spent!

But many people will NOT pay anything out of their own pocket. They demand first-dollar coverage, including for when they have shot themselves in the foot by being cheap. They're saving pennies to spend thousands, plus endure long-term agony.


I agree but my impression was that the OP wasn't aware that such a test exists.

Thank you, OP, for the heads up. I hope you are feeling better. Please keep us posted on your progress with the reversal.

[applesoffh]

My orthopedist in NYC recommended Synvisc shots for my knees about 5 years ago. We went through the entire allergy routine, including allergies to chickens, hens and eggs, to which I am not allergic.

After the third shot (protocol at that time was up to three shot per knee, spaced 2 - 3 weeks apart), I couldn't move. It was as though the entire lower half of my body was encased in cement. After a strong course of anti-inflammatories, I was fine. Turned out I was allergic to the chicken combs. Who knew? My doctor was amazed, as was I.


It seems to me that people should also be aware of allergens from donor stem cells and chicken combs in the injected Synvisc, Orthovisc, and stem-cell replacement materials:

"What is Synvisc-One made from?

The injection contains a gel-like mixture made from a substance called hyaluronan (pronounced hy-al-u-ROE-nan) that comes from chicken combs." (Manufacturer link below)

And

"ORTHOVISC® is derived from bacterial cells, not rooster combs or other avian sources. This makes ORTHOVISC® the only non-avian sourced viscosupplementation injection with proven pain relief for up to six months, so patients with avian allergies (like allergies to poultry, feathers or eggs) do not need to worry about an allergic reaction.

ORTHOVISC® is the only injection made from ultra-pure hyaluronan, a naturally occurring lubricant found in healthy joints. In fact, ORTHOVISC® has the highest concentration of hyaluronan among all FDA-approved viscosupplements.
(Manufacturer link below)

And

Stem Cell Replacement Drugs:

"January 24, 2013
(CHICAGO) – Rush University Medical Center is conducting the nation’s first clinical study of an innovative stem cell drug, Cartistem, to repair knee cartilage damaged by aging, trauma or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Cartistem is manufactured from mesenchymal stem cells derived from allogeneic (donor) umbilical cord blood. Umbilical cord blood is a readily accessible source of high-quality stem cells, is associated with minimal health risks and carries relatively few ethical concerns.

The stem cells are mixed with hyaluronan, a natural polymer that plays a major role in wound healing and is a building block of joint cartilage..."



What Is Synvisc-One & How Does the Knee Injection Work? (http://www.synviscone.com/what-is-synvisc-one.aspx)

Benefits of Orthovisc Injections - Orthovisc (http://www.orthovisc.com/orthovisc/benefits?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Brand+-+Orthovisc&utm_term=orthovisc&utm_content=Orthovisc+-+General|mkwid|s5kkCwt57_dc|pcrid|33025971112)

https://www.rush.edu/news/press-releases/rush-researchers-studying-stem-cell-therapy-repair-damaged-knee-cartilage

[paulascorpio]

Regarding Synvisc, Orthovisc and Stem Cells. I had my own stem cells injected. The bone marrow was taken from my spine.

[paulascorpio]

I see Dr Nguyen tomorrow. I pray for some knowledge from this medical fiasco and pain.
I do understand people not wanting to spend the $$ for the metal testing but if it can avert months of pain and more surgery, what is it worth to you??

[cquick]

Thank you for your post. Until I started looking into knee replacement, I had never heard about the possibility of an allergy to the metals in the replacement. I have had the coin test and I am going to take the blood test before I consider surgery.

[sunnyatlast]

I see Dr Nguyen tomorrow. I pray for some knowledge from this medical fiasco and pain.
I do understand people not wanting to spend the $$ for the metal testing but if it can avert months of pain and more surgery, what is it worth to you??

Thank you for bringing this to the forum. A lot has been learned from it that we can use if/when we get into your situation.

It sounds like you're on the right track now and prayers are going up for you. Be sure to write when you're better.

[bagboy]

I see Dr Nguyen tomorrow. I pray for some knowledge from this medical fiasco and pain.
I do understand people not wanting to spend the $$ for the metal testing but if it can avert months of pain and more surgery, what is it worth to you??

Prayers and crossed fingers for you !!!

[kpdandjad]

Hi, we are looking at Stem Cell instead of a knee replacement. Did the stem cell proceedure work for you?

[maryanna630]

I think stem cell therapy is the medicine of the future but I believe the experience and skill of the practicioner is critical. This is true, of course, in any procedure.

[paulascorpio]

Went to Dr Nguyen today. It was stated that my Zimmer replacement does have nickel components and I am highly reactive to the nickel. My symptoms: Pain, knee clicking, itching etc are all symptoms of rejection. To be sure, they are sending me for a 3D Bone Scan and blood work for auto immune symptoms. They were all very kind and caring which was a big change from my current doctor. I see Dr Nguyen again on 6/19 for my results and course of action. All I keep thinking is: a simple $200 blood test would have averted all this pain and my doctor could have just suggested it like Dr Nguyen. Here I am one year later in more pain with suffering needlessly when I should be fine at this point.

[Villageswimmer]

So very sorry you had to endure all this. Glad you're now heading in the right direction. Try to stay positive. Please keep us posted. Best wishes and prayers for your speedy recovery.

[cathyp]

Dr. Nguyen did a knee revision after 2 years of pain from a surgeon who said the replacement was "perfect". Dr. Nguyen replaced the ceramic part that was slipping. I trust him greatly.

[paulascorpio]

CATHYP did he do the revision on you?? I don't know anyone that has had a revision. I don't even know what to expect. Dr Nguyen's office though has been wonderful.

KPDANDJAD I had Dr Purita from Boca Raton, FL who teaches worldwide stem cell replacement. It is a painful procedure (the first series)
and it did work (pain free for 10 months) but then I grew spurs on my knee. It works for some. It is not covered under insurance as it is considered experimental. I was willing to try anything not to have surgery. Is it worth considering: weigh the cost vs possible outcome.

To everyone that has sent prayers and well wishes, I thank each one of you. I need all your prayers.

[cathyp]

Paula-yes Dr. Nguyen did the replacement and my knee feels entirely stable unlike the 22 months after the original surgery.

[PattyCakes]

My knee replacement is 14 years old and was done in Nevada by a very well known, and extremely skilled surgeon. He did not give me an allergy test. He did, however, upon learning that I was allergic to nickel, insert a ceramic coated knee replacement. I've never had a moment's problem, and was the poster child of quick recoveries. I didn't know the test existed or was used for this purpose. Thanks for the helpful information.

[paulascorpio]

Just an update: I went to Dr Nguyen today. He received my test results. The reports stated severe swelling behind the knee cap and possible infection and severe metal allergies to nickel. My replacement has a lot of nickel.
So, he removed the fluid (quite a bit) from behind the patella and put in a steroid injection to calm the inflammation. The fluid was sent to Florida Hospital for testing for bacteria/infection. The results take 4/5 days.
It was quite painful and I was alone so, I started crying (kind of scared). After the procedure he got up and put his arms around me and told me not to worry. That he was going to make me better and that he knows the pain I'm in and he's going to fix it.
That kindness reinforced the fact that I definitely am with the right doctor.

The surgeon that originally did my knee still has not agreed to see me because he told his PA that there is nothing wrong with my knee. That it is all in my head and my X-rays from 5 months ago are perfectly fine! Once this is all done, I definitely will post the Dr's name.

CathyP: Thanks for your reply. One more question: how is your range of movement because of the two surgeries. The same, better or worse?

[Barefoot]

It was quite painful and I was alone so, I started crying (kind of scared). After the procedure he got up and put his arms around me and told me not to worry. That he was going to make me better and that he knows the pain I'm in and he's going to fix it. That kindness reinforced the fact that I definitely am with the right doctor.

I'm glad that you finally found a skilled surgeon who obviously is very compassionate. I wish you only the best.

[paulascorpio]

Thanks you and to everyone for all your love and kindness.

[bagboy]

Thanks you and to everyone for all your love and kindness.

Once I saw you were seeing Dr. Nguyen, I felt you were in the best hands possible. It surely will take time, but if he said he will fix your problem I believe in my heart that he will do just that. Hang in there!!! As for your surgeon, I have a pretty good guess but that will be your call. You have my best wishes!

[loladenton]

Hi
I need recommendations for a knee doctor in the greater Villages area. I have a meniscus tear caused by wear, arthritis, cartilage loss. I feel that cortisone, Orthovisc and stem cell injections will only put off the inevitable knee replacement. I would love to hear your input on this subject. Thank you so much.

[courtyard]

There's an amazing Dr. on Youtube that has a video on How To Have Healthy Feet and Knees. Knee problems can stem from the spinal column, and a simple adjustment by a Chiropractor can save you from needless surgery. Here's the Dr.'s video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZWMsS5JXm0