Luckily, I was referred to Dr. Geoffrey Westrich at the Hospital for Special Surgery after suffering many months with a metal allergy from knee prostheses that contained nickel and cobalt. Shortly after my April, 2013 bilateral knee replacements at a Philadelphia hospital, I started noticing systemic pain and weakness. I informed my Surgeon and his NP many times I did not notice any progress in my knees and my body was getting weaker and more painful. I attended physical therapy as recommended. I was prescribed multiple medications and no medicine took the pain away. My research on artificial joints pointed me in the direction of a metal allergy.
I tried to speak to my original surgeon regarding a possible metal allergy and asked for a metal allergy test; however he was not receptive to my suggestion. My surgeon quickly dismissed the research I found and a newsletter article pertaining to metal allergies. My surgeon suggested I see a Rheumatologist. The Rheumatologist ordered blood test and prescribed methotrexate which I took for 6 months. I still had no relief from the pain. My Rheumatologist worked hard to help me but was perplexed. I could feel my body getting weaker and shutting down. Within months I could not lift 1/2 gallon of milk, I needed help turning over in bed and getting dressed. I searched for a second orthopedic opinion but surgeons in my area did not want to see me for a year after my original surgery.
My instincts told me in a year's time I would be in a wheelchair. Finally, I took a metal allergy blood test and the results showed I was reactive to cobalt and nickel. Dr. Westrich showed compassion when I explained my symptoms. Dr. Westrich was caring, understanding and took the time to explain my options to my husband and me. Dr. Westrich performed left knee revision surgery in January, 2014 and right knee revision surgery in May, 2014. By July, 2014 most of my pain was gone. I have regained my strength, can take care of myself, and enjoy life as I did before my original surgery. I have learned that patients must follow their instincts and be their own advocate. Physicians should take an interest in their patients concerns. I commend Dr. Westrich for taking an interest in my situation, and for having extensive knowledge and experience to handle my complex complications. Dr. Westrich's research background is leading the way to helping patients with rare joint replacement issues. In addition, the care and attention I received from Dr. Westrich's staff and the HSS staff was of the highest quality. I highly recommend Dr. Westrich and The Hospital for Special Surgery for all orthopedic conditions.
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