I've posted about my knee problems.
Short synopsis: Many years of problems that have gotten worse.

MRI shows probable lateral and medial meniscus tears. But x-rays show
arthritis (calcium in cartilege).

First orthopedic guy said we can do a scope/clean-out but due to arthritis
the results might not be "what I'd be hoping for" (which is to walk a long
distance at a brisk pace without pain). Eventually I would need a TKR,
perhaps in 2-5 years.

Rheumy concurred, but he figures 10 years before a TKR.

I went to second orthopedic guy today. He feels most of my symptoms are due
to cartilege problems. He can fix that with the scope. There is calcium and
he will have a better idea once he gets in but he sounded very confident. He
does NOT see a TKR at all as he says there is plenty of gap between the
bones. When one needs a TKR the gap would be very narrow.

Both orthopedic guys are highly recommended and conservative. In fact, I saw
this last one years ago for a rotator cuff problem and his approach was very
conservative (P/T, resulting in a total recovery).

So, I guess I will opt for the surgery. I teach at a University so I hope to
hold out until late June/early July.

Comments?

Mel