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I had a total knee replacement two years ago. I'm not having any problems, but my doctor wants me to come back every year. Is this really needed?

Anyone with a total knee replacement (TKR) should see the doctor every one to two years for follow-up. X-rays and exam can find problems early before symptoms occur. Cracking or wear of the implant can be treated early before extensive surgery is needed. The same is
true for loosening of any part of the TKR. A delay in diagnosis can lead to many other problems later.

Keeping track of patients also helps doctors see what kind of results they are getting with their surgical methods. The information helps doctors give each patient the best care possible.

Reference: 

Paul J. King, MD, et al. The Fate of Patients Not Returning for Follow-Up Five Years After Total Knee Arthroplasty. In The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. May 2004. Vol. 86-A. No. 5. Pp. 897-901.


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