Great question — and it's smart to think about how a knee replacement might interact with myeloma, even when things are well-controlled.
The good news is that knee replacement surgery doesn't directly involve bone marrow in the same way myeloma does. However, myeloma can raise some surgical risks worth discussing with both Show Full Answer
Great question — and it's smart to think about how a knee replacement might interact with myeloma, even when things are well-controlled.
The good news is that knee replacement surgery doesn't directly involve bone marrow in the same way myeloma does. However, myeloma can raise some surgical risks worth discussing with both your orthopedist and your oncologist together.
Key risks to be aware of include:
- Infection risk — Revlimid (lenalidomide) can lower white blood cell counts, which may affect the body's ability to fight post-surgical infections
- Kidney function — Surgery and certain pain medications used afterward can stress the kidneys, which myeloma can already make more vulnerable
- Healing — Myeloma can sometimes slow bone healing, though knee replacement is joint-focused rather than bone-rebuilding
- Blood clots — Revlimid already carries a clotting risk, and surgery adds to that risk The most important step is to make sure the orthopedist and the oncologist are communicating directly before any surgery is scheduled. Timing the procedure around Revlimid dosing and blood count levels could make a real difference in outcomes.
It's also worth asking about pain management options post-surgery, since some common pain relievers (like NSAIDs) can be harder on the kidneys for people with myeloma.
June 1
I had both knees done in 2003-05., one at a time, before MM was diagnosed in 2008..
June 7
My husband is 8 years post transplant. He has had both knees replaced in the last 30 months. His condition had to be stable in order to have the surgery. He had day surgery both times. He could not have the anti inflammatory drugs but was able to have Tylenol and the antibiotics and gabapentin. All the best
June 7
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