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Post by reck169 on Jan 13, 2024 22:16:17 GMT -7
I want to open up with,I am a retired active male. Short version of story is I had my right ankle replaced in 2014. I 2018 my right ankle and left knee were infected causing sepsis. The ankle was cleaned up and infection was treated, my implant was put back into the ankle. My left knee was subsequently replaced after all infection protocols were met. October 30th, 2023 my right ankle was septic for a second time. Unfortunately my implant was removed and could not be replaced. I am currently in the infection protocols for the infection. I have been told by my surgeon that I only have 2 options, a bone block 2 stage fusion surgery or amputation. This is a 2nd opinion surgeon, I have one more appointment with another Surgeon for his assessment. I am struggling with the decision that is in front of me. I have an active lifestyle and want the best outcome for my situation. More importantly I want to minimize the risk on re-infection to my ankle. Not sure how many more times I can survive sepsis. The fusion surgery involves cadaver bone, more metal screws and a metal rod among other stuff. It is a 2 stage surgery and have been told it's a difficult procedure. Recovery is extremely lengthy and painful. The success rate is around 70% in my case. I have read about the second option of below the knee amputation. Looking for any helpful insight on my situation. TIA for any help!
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Post by snowyh on Jan 16, 2024 0:30:08 GMT -7
First of all, welcome to the site, reck169. I can't give any personal advice regarding ability to retain an active lifestyle after BK* amputation, other than that I see images on TV of BK amputees running, rock climbing, etc. And I have come across posts over the years by people who lived with limb pain for years before they decided upon amputation and express regret over not having opted for that choice sooner. However, what I CAN tell you from reading your post is that it sounds like you already know what the best decision is for you.
Helen
*below knee
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Post by reck169 on Jan 16, 2024 12:52:44 GMT -7
Thank You Helen!
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Post by stonecutter on Jan 22, 2024 9:33:14 GMT -7
Hi reck169. Sound advice from Helen, as usual!
My industrial accident just under 30 years ago now left me with a crushes ankle, full thickness burns from a cutting torch (rescue operations), the wickedest blood infection that almost took me out. I learned after waking up from my first surgery (of 6 where the doctors were trying to save my foot) with an external fixator and my ankle fused as it was too damaged to save any sort of movement.
Anyhow, my case is probably different, but I was warned that it would likely be a life of pain, more limited mobility than I was used to, and being prone to infection and further injury. Believe it or not, I was on board for the fight, until my infection turned into gangrene and the doctors were then at odds on whether or not the foot could be saved. I ended up making the decision for them - lop that sucker off!
Honestly - I haven't regretted that decision at all. Fairly active, could be more active, but my interests are more outdoorsy with ATVs, fishing, hunting, etc rather than sports. (Just yesterday I spent the day ice fishing and riding my ATV on and around a Northern Alberta lake!) I'm not sure I'd be able to do as much as I do with a fused ankle.
I'm not trying to influence your decision, but I'd encourage you to hear both sides of your decision before you make yours. I'm confident that you'll make the right decision for you - things have a tendency to work out the way they're supposed to. I truly believe that.
Let us know if we can help by answering your questions. Best of luck to you.
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