Bob Duclos has always enjoyed outdoor actives such as golfing, cycling and working in the yard. In the Fall of 2000, Bob sustained an injury to his left knee while working in his yard. His initial symptoms included swelling, limited range of motion, an abnormal gait and pain. A Moorpark resident, he called Southern California Orthopedic Institute (SCOI) and got an appointment with Dr. Getelman. He was diagnosed with a meniscus tear in his left knee after a clinical exam with Dr. Getelman and imaging.
Not wanting the injury to limit his day-to-day activity, Bob decided to have meniscus surgery and was thrilled to be fully recovered only two months from the operation. “The recovery was really quick, and I was really happy with my results,” said Bob.
In the Fall of 2016, Bob was working in the yard and sustained the same injury, but this time in his right knee. “My symptoms were identical to my injury sixteen years ago, so I knew exactly what was going on,” said Bob. “I was so happy with my results with Dr. Getelman sixteen years ago, I knew exactly who to call.”
During his appointment, Dr. Getelman ordered an MRI and x-ray for an accurate diagnosis. “In addition to the imaging for my right knee, I had an x-ray done on my left knee, which after sixteen years showed no arthritis,” said Bob. The imaging confirmed that Bob had a meniscus tear in his right knee. On December 23, 2016 Bob had meniscus surgery.
“Since this was the second time around, I knew exactly what to expect. I did not have any pain following the meniscus surgery; however, I didI have stiffness in my knee the first few days after surgery,” said Bob. Through physical therapy, stretching and cycling Bob was back to a hundred percent in five weeks.
“What I appreciated the most about Dr. Getelman’s style of care was the quality of care,” said Bob. “The recovery time was so fast for both surgeries. He is really fun to meet with and takes the time to answer all of your questions. His whole staff was exceptional as well. From the surgery center to diagnostic imaging, the whole experience was great. Katie, Dr. Getelman’s PA was also fantastic. Everyone made me feel like this was a very routine procedure.”
“The advice that I would give other patients who have sustained a similar injury would be to see an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible, and – if you can – go see Dr. Getelman,” Bob said. “Make sure you weigh our all of your options. In some cases, a meniscus tear can limit your everyday activity, so getting surgery may be the appropriate option for you.”