The minimually invasive TKR is in my opinion a great way to go.  I was
walking up stairs in two days.  Since they don't cut the tendon or the
muscle the recovery is much shorter. My incision is small and I had
great mobility in a very short time.

Most of the trouble I ran into was unrelated to the surgery.  Tooth
with crown and filling failed and I needed a root canal (two weeks
after my surgery, the infection it revealed delayed my getting on RA
meds. so right now I'm in a flare.  I also had the misforture of
catching a virus (good news on that is that my blood work was normal,
except sed rate which is 90) I can start my RA meds today, Yipee.

I went to a personal trainer and worked on my muscles, not only the
knees, but also the arms.  You need your hands, wrists and arms to
support you.  I HIGHLY recommend getting into shape for the surgery.
Your mom will be really happy she did.  If there is a pool available to
your mom, she might want to try that as well, I found it helpful when I
was getting ready for my surgery.  You can do so much in a pool.

I would definately get this surgery again if I need it for my other
knee.

My surgeon's office gave me names and phone numbers of people to call
who had had the TKR so I could feel better about the procedure.  My
surgeon was very accessable for questions.

With a double TKR I think rehab for a few days is an excellent idea.
My bookclub friend is approximately the same age as your mother loved
rehab.  She was up and about and able to care for herself after five
days in the hospital and a week in rehab.

Hope this helps.
Elizabeth

Thank you, Butterfly!!!  Cute name!!  And cute story about the name!!
I do appreciate you taking the time to share the story about your
husband's TKR.  I sure hope my mom does just as well as he did with
his!!
This is a great group for information and friendship.  Hope you can
continue posting.
Take care,
Carol