Bad Knees Blog - take 4

Today I'm going to talk about the procedures each clinic proposed, my interaction with them, the costs, and my reasons for choosing one.

As I said, I did a lot of homework and send request for information to half a dozen clinics. Four responded, and three quickly in email and with a phone call. The one I chose not to pursue was in Texas, and I didn't see anything there that I wasn't going to get at the other places (although they'll tell you fifty ways they're better and different). That left clinics in Florida, Pittsburgh, and Tijuana/San Diego.

I submitted a dvd with my MRI images and the full orthopedic report to each and waited to here. The first one to contact me and arrange a consultation was Smart Choice in Jacksonville. The doctor seemed knowledgeable, friendly, and experienced. The clinic boasts an impressive record of success. Smart Choice came back with a full itinerary. They offer three steps in the stem cell process and although everybody doesn't need all three, they suggested I'd have the best chance of success if I underwent a PRP/fat mixture injection on day one. This is where they use my platelets to heighten my own healing response and to make the joint more receptive to the stem cells. This is to prep the joint for the next step. After 3 days I'd go back in for the full Monte. I'd have a hormone treatment in the morning to further prepare the knee. Then stem cells would be taken from my hip, and in the afternoon I'd have 20 to 25 stem cell injections. This full course meal with extras would cost $7500, and I'd be able to have my left knee done (sooner or later) at a bargain $2500. The $10,000 would come out of our pockets (credit card), as none of this is covered by insurance. Also, we had to consider the cost of air transportation, car rental, and food and lodging while we were in Florida. Even so, it was appealing.

Next, I spoke with the Progen representative in San Diego. The clinic is in Tiajuana and also has a good reputation. After the medical team reviewed my MRI pics and report, they recommended I first have an arthroscopic procedure to clean the knew up some. AS both of my orthopedic doctors here have told me that would not help my condition and might well make it worse, I wasn't up for a scope. I could have just the stem cell extraction and application for $3100. If I went with the scope and stem cells, the cost would be $10,000 to $12,000. I thought this might be a chance to connect with some of my old California pals, but reality is harsh. Once again I did the numbers, and the total cost would be out of reach.

The third clinic I considered was Rehabilitation and Pain Specialists in Pittsburg, PA. They us the Regenexx" procedure that is offered at a number clinics around the country. The consult was not free, but the process and supporting data were impressive. If I chose them, the $200 fee would be folded into the full cost of treatment. When the consultation call came, I was armed with a page of questions and concerns. The doctor was thorough, patient, realistic, and crystal clear. He's the President of the American Association of Orthopedic Medicine, and has a reassuringly large body of work with stem cells. He told me I would have a 66% chance of success, and that my overall level of fitness and preparation could help to improve that. The procedure was begin with Prolotherapy, an injection to fire up and annoy the joint to get it ready for the big dance. Five days later I'd return to have my blood drawn for platelet injections and my stem cells "harvested" from my hip. Three hours later the processed stem cells would be injected into the joint. Then, after two days of rest, I'd go back in for blood work (to check up on things), and platelets. I'd go home that afternoon with a special brace, a pair of crutches, and a prayer. One month later, I'd return for a follow up appointment. The cost - $5500.

Pittsburgh is an easy 3 1/2 hour drive from my house in Buffalo, so already the cost is much better. The doctor and materials inspired confidence without making grandiose promises. Consequently, it's Pittsburgh. We start March 16. I say "We" because I wouldn't be doing any of this without my wife Cindy's support and help.

I'll talk about the preparation in upcoming posts. This may not be interesting to everyone, but if you or a loved one is facing a similar situation, it just may be useful.