IPF patients requiring Total knee replacement

[Blue_skies]

I was diagnosed with IPF at the time of my 1st total knee replacement in 2017. Was not on home Oxygen at that time. Unfortunately at the time of 2nd knee replacement in 2023, I ended up having an acute exacerbation post op and started on home oxygen. Pulmonologist advised against OFEV post op because of more cons than pros. Now in STAGE 4 and on 20 liter of oxygen. In retrospect, pulmonologist did warn me about a flare up post op, but I took the chance.

[Louis M. Cherwa]

Yes I had a TKR on a knee with an old partial knee replacement. Probably 3years ago now with success. I looked for a Doc that used a spinal/nerve block and did very well. I refused general anesthesia. I’ve always had problems with a general. My Doc used what they called a “Jiffy Knee”. He does not cut down the center of the knee. no muscles cut and the procedure was outpatient and I walked from the hospital entrance to my car. I did not drive and used the stairs at home. Quick PT and on my own.

Did not affect oxygen use. At the time I was on oxygen with exertion..

[alanier]

Hello Adw,

My father had IPF and had a knee replacement that went fine. However, on the second knee surgery (6 mos later) he had severe lung complications and within a few days of surgery he had to be hospitalized, was put on life support and passed. His IPF doctor had warned him about complications from general anesthesia and advised that he not do it, but he was passionate about his mobility and accepted the risk as his first surgery had gone well. He has not on oxygen prior to the surgeries.

[Marfa]

I was diagnosed with IPF in 2020 and like you only use oxygen upon exertion. In 2023 I required a TKR. My Pulmonologist wrote a recommendation for dealing with my illness. Here is what she wrote to the TKR doctor: She is at increased risk for pulmonary complications related to her IPF- biggest concern
would be an acute IPF exacerbation.
If General Anesthesia with intubation is required- recommend that it be an
Anesthesiologist who is familiar with ventilating ILD patients. Turns out that they did a block on me which worked out great. I would have a long talk with your Pulmonologist. I do have to say that everyone told me to stay ahead of the pain with meds which I did, even though I didn’t feel like I needed them. But, realized that the block lasted a couple of days for me so I basically wasted the pain meds and had none needed when I really needed them. Might be different for you. Also, a previous reply mentioned a Jiffy Knee. My husband works with someone that had that done and it worked out really well for him.

Good Luck!