Knee1.com strives to provide users with as many tools as possible to educate
themselves on their knee problems. In the past, we offered an interactive
"Ask an Expert" feature, but due to an extremely high volume of questions,
we are now seeking to find alternate ways to provide our users with access to the
information they're looking for. In seeking medical advice, we encourage you to use
these resources:
Below are some of the most-recently-answered questions from our Medical Experts. We recommend you read
over these questions as well as search our "Frequently Asked Questions" to
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Question:
Hello,
I am forty years olds and have had surgery on both knees for chondromalacia. I went for a long time with grinding in both knees and did not seek medical attention until I started experiencing pain. By that time, the cartlidge had been completely destroyed in both knees and I was told that I have the knees of a 65 year old person. My doctor performed surgery on both knees to elevate the knee caps and try to buy me some time before knee replacement. It has been four years since my last knee surgery and I am experiencing bad pain with both knees. My question is, do you recommend knee replacements on patients who are 40 years old? My doctor is willing to go ahead but I am a little concerned about doing it so young. I am almost to the point that I cannot do anything anymore. I would just like your opinion. Thanks so much!
Dr. Farr
Dr. Farr is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in knee and sports medicine. He serves on the board of the Orthopedic Research Foundation and is medical director of www.cartilagerestoration.org and www.myknee.md, where emphasis is on exploring new ways to treat damaged cartilage. Dr. Farr is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), the American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine (AOSSM) and the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA).
Answer: It is important to discuss the exact nature of the remaining articular cartilage and the position of your patellae. Explore options of cartilage restoration. If these are not viable, discuss the newer options of patellofemoral resurfacing versus total knee arthroplasty. Age is certainly a concern for all salvage procedures and measuring twice (extensive deliberation) and cutting once remains a good carpenter rule often expanded to Orthopedic Surgeons.
Dr. Farr is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in knee and sports medicine. He serves on the board of the Orthopedic Research Foundation and is medical director of 
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