“ Individuals age 50, and in some cases younger, should have a screening
KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
If a patient has bad-looking X-rays, but they are not being held back by their knees, we can take a more conservative route with them via anti-inflammatory medication, lifestyle modifications, and even some injections.” But when patients come in and are having issues with their daily activities and things they take for granted, like walking up and down the stairs or getting in and out of bed, that’s when it’s time to consider knee replacement surgery. “Surprisingly for most patients who have had bone-on-bone
While the surgery was a little painful for Chris, he says that it was definitely worthwhile. “The rehab was rigorous, but I was fortunate that I was in good shape when I had my knees done, which probably played a large part in helping me recover quickly,” he says. “Today, my knees feel great.” “I’ve been extremely happy with the results,” Chris continues. “I lift weights, walk, and run lightly with no pain. I’ve had many surgeries at St. Clair Hospital and have been treated very well
pain for years, the biggest complaint is not pain,” says Dr. Fluhme.
there. Dr. Fluhme was just great to deal with. I think very highly
“Usually, it’s more function. They’ve adapted to the pain and
of him and his team.”
accepted it. But when their functions are limited and their quality of life is affected, that is a big indicator for joint knee replacement.” Take, for example, Chris Moran, a construction worker from Beechview, who had been experiencing significant pain in his knees and was a candidate for double knee replacement surgery. “I had no cartilage remaining in either knee,” says Chris, 56. “I also had an MCL tear in my left knee and I was in constant pain.” In fact, Chris had seven surgeries and five scopes before Dr. Fluhme recommended double knee replacement surgery. “Mr. Moran was another athletic person who played sports his entire life and still enjoys playing basketball and working out with regularity,” he says. “However, like Mr. Wright, here was another weekend warrior who completely pulverized his knees over the years to the point where they were just bone on bone.” For several years prior to Dr. Fluhme’s arrival, Chris was a patient of South Hills Orthopaedics. “I heard he was a great physician and checked on his reputation, which was impeccable,” says Chris. “I decided to stay with the practice and go with Dr. Fluhme and it was a great decision.” Chris had his first knee replacement surgery a couple of years ago, and the other knee replaced in February 2010.
DERRICK J. FLUHME, M.D. earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, respectively, from the University of Notre Dame and Georgetown University. He was awarded his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, and a fellowship at Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic, Department of Sports Medicine, Los Angeles. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Fluhme practices with South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C.
“Mr. Moran had a great response with his replacement surgery and it greatly improved his quality of life as well,” says Dr. Fluhme. 4
To contact Dr. Fluhme, please call 412.429.0880.