Larry Kaiden

After many years of knee pain from a meniscus tear and arthritis, which led to a bone on bone condition. Limping and in pain, I was losing my ability to participate in my lifelong passion for skiing. HSS gave me my life back. I elected to have a Total Knee Replacement done at HSS by Dr. Mark Figgie. In less than 5 months, I was back on the slopes doing my favorite sport. For two years, I skied and biked, pain free. Unfortunately, the lower knee implant failed producing swelling and some pain.

Back to HSS. The diagnosis was a need to do a revision. Unfortunately, there is a very small percentage of failures in this procedure. I guess I was the unlucky one. But I was determined! After consultation with Dr. Figgie, and a second opinion, I continued to believe that he was the right doctor to do the revision. I prepared for several months with supervised careful strengthening at my local gym. I went into the operation in great physical condition for a 79 year-old.

This all paid off, when after the operation, I could go home after two days, get off the meds, and get rid of the cane within 10 days. I went to rehab as an outpatient. They discharged me after several weeks after meeting every goal set out for me. I went back to training at my local specialized gym. My legs became stronger than they have ever been.

This past February, I celebrated my 80th birthday in Vail and skied with my kids and grandchildren. I feel stronger and more confident with this new knee. I am also bicycling outdoors, spinning, and riding my motorcycle regularly. I expect that in the coming years I will continue skiing in good health. Thank you all at HSS and Dr. Figgie and staff for letting me get "Back in the Game". Your diligent care has paid off.

Take a look at a video from Vail. Not bad for an octogenarian!