From a limp to ultramarathons – Neil’s story

For over 20 years, Neil had constant knee pain. Being diagnosed with pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) in his early twenties, painful inflammation developed within the lining of the knee joint, which over time progressed into severe osteoarthritis, wearing away the meniscus cartilage. Incredibly debilitating and unusual for someone of his age, he knew something needed to change.

Despite trying physiotherapy, knee braces and orthotics over the years, he resisted looking at surgical options for some time, but soon started to realise that surgery might be his only, permanent option.

Sore misgivings

Having two young children and a steady career as an engineer, Neil confirms that he “had only ever heard negative things” about knee replacements “…friends and family said it may go wrong, or that I would be worse after.” Concerned about possible complications and downtime following surgery, it was only when he developed a pronounced limp and walking became a real struggle, that Neil booked a consultation to see Mr Rob Pollock, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at The Princess Grace Hospital. 

“I’d been to see other general orthopaedic specialists who believed they would be able to help. However, when further investigations were done, it became clear that only a surgeon who had complex, combined PVNS and osteoarthritis experience would be able to resolve my issue.”

“Mr Pollock provided reassurance that he could help me – especially being 43, and the likely positive impact on my future. Having operated on knees that were in a similar condition to mine - we went for it.”

Hanging in the balance

Using Mako robotic technology, a 3D virtual model of Neil’s knee was created to assess the damage, and present the full clinical picture. On review, and following this up with MRI and CT scans, a local recurrence of PVNS was identified, as well as bone cysts. Serious, but thankfully classified early on as benign, the knee was even more vulnerable to permanent damage than originally thought, and surgery needed to be performed at the earliest opportunity. 

In May 2022, Neil underwent a combined total knee replacement and simultaneous removal of the PVNS under the care of Mr Pollock at The Princess Grace Hospital. Initially incredibly nervous about the procedure and what his world could look like post-operation, life has completely changed. 

Life-changing outcomes

Neil was supported to stand up by the clinical teams and physiotherapists in the first 24 hours post-surgery, setting his new knee in motion and building up strength. Exercises and next steps were communicated clearly – the operation had gone incredibly well, but Neil needed to keep himself moving whilst simultaneously managing any discomfort.  

“I was diligent with my exercises – I knew if I didn’t move, the new knee would seize up. As part of my recovery, and to accompany physio, I started doing small health and wellbeing challenge - starting with 10,000 steps a day, then going a bit further. Later in my recovery, I had reached 10 miles, but felt compelled to set a larger goal.”

Incredibly, Neil tried – and thoroughly enjoyed - paddleboarding for the first time only two months after his total knee replacement – and he hasn’t stopped there. 

“Two years to the day of my operation, I successfully completed my first 28.4-mile ultra-walking marathon! I am thinking of signing up to another one before the year is out!”

A new lease of life

From where he was only two years ago to now is remarkable. Whilst he has to be mindful of his knee and not put it under too much strain, he is back to enjoying life - playing with his young children, not having to plan every step of his journey to work if he misses the train, as well as not needing to risk assess other everyday activities. His new knee has given him a new lease of life – one that he is fully embracing every minute of. 

 “The surgery was, and continues to be, life-changing – I am now doing things that I haven’t done for 20 years!”

We wish Neil and his family continued wellness as he continues to enjoy family experiences and a balanced, pain-free work-life routine – and thank him for sharing his wonderful story. 

Find out more about the knee injury services available at HCA Healthcare UK or to book an appointment, call 020 3733 5966.