This surgery was suggested for me, but I'm struggling to find a surgeon to do it. I'm based in the United Kingdom.
Any input would be appreciated, and I'm willing to consider treatment abroad. The difficulty that I'm facing, is that I need a surgeon that is familiar with the implant that I have (Stryker), and might need some bits in between the knee replaced, and a patellar button as well to resurface the patella, since that is why I have arthrofibrosis, a mechanical failure. I'm veru frustrated to have a surgical plan and being unable to execute it.
Hi Florencia,
You're incredibly brave and determined, despite the enormous health burden! I wish it wasn't so difficult to get quality arthrofibrosis treatment.
It will be nice to talk via email.
Kayley
Hi Kayley, my knee at this point is completely ankylosed, with literally zero range of motion. I think this surgery is only indicated for very severe cases like mine, as I need a revision of my limb salvage, it was going to be an open surgery anyways. I hate that my arthrofibrosis was left untreated, because it was never my choice, I begged for help.
I will send you an email because there are a few papers that I want to share wit you.
This procedure at the moment is just a dream for me, very expensive and difficult to organise, and it is not a one surgeon's job, we are looking at a minimum of 5 of them.
Hi Florencia,
I'm glad that you've read up on it, and understand the risk of making the arthrofibrosis worse. All the very best!
Kayley
Hi Kayley,
It is indeed a very invasive procedure, but sadly arthroscopy is not an option for me, and I need an open surgery.
I don't think that there will be any trials, since this is not even a modern surgery. The extension lag is not so much of a problem with the Judet technique, but it was with other previous versions of the quadricepsplasty. The main risk is infection.
Hi Florencia,
I've read a little about the Judet quadricepsplasty - it's a very major open surgery that involves cutting of the major muscles and tendons, and it alarms me. I've read a review paper which lists some major side effects, including extension lag, requirement for an MUA afterwards due to "contracture", a high rate of infections and haematomas.
Please feel free to discuss this via email and I can send you the paper by Ding 2019. This review did not find any randomised controlled trials of this method.
All the best,
Kayley