I began having knee pain some years ago and had no idea what it was. I was traveling extensively for business (international litigation) in the summer and fall of '16 - 3 trips to Europe, 5 to the West Coast - and the pain became extreme from traipsing through airports, etc. Movement was agony. Then, in late October, I had a case before a major appeals court and nearly collapsed on the way to the lectern. After that I was on crutches and feeling awful with chronic pain.
I interviewed two orthopedic surgeons in Connecticut and 3 at HSS. All the surgeons at HSS were patient in explaining their approaches, and I chose Dr. Sculco. He is a delight - thoughtful, thorough, articulate, patient and with a great sense of humor (I promise: that is helpful for post-op recovery). The surgery went smoothly, the two weeks of predictable misery thereafter abated. And yes, the physical therapy is tough. But Dr. Sculco was always there if I had questions and makes one feel that they are the most important patient when one is with him. He gives his complete attention and answers all questions (and I had plenty, before and after).
I had the surgery on Feb. 25 2017 and my hope was to not have to cancel a Caribbean vacation in late April. Dr. Sculco said "no problem." I didn't believe him - recovery is truly week-by-week. But he was a truth-teller, and 8 weeks later I was on a flight to my vacation with no discomfort. I kept up with the therapy while there (see photo) and was delighted to be mobile and relaxed.
The results were great. My knee flexion returned to 133 degrees ("good" is defined as 120 or better) and the leg is perfectly straight. And yes, my PT said that teenage gymnasts can do better, but for me, all is well. I couldn't be more pleased. Unfortunately, my other knee looks the same on x-rays and will need the replacement soon, but with Dr. Sculco I know it will end up flawlessly.
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