Once Tim Vollstedt of Arcadia, Iowa goes out on the water, it is hard to get him back to shore.
Unfortunately, it used to be a different story. Tim was suffering from intense knee pain in both knees, forcing him to limit the time spent on the water and in the boat.
He has struggled with knee pain for years- something he believes stems from working years on a concrete floor and general wear and tear from daily activities.
When it became difficult for him to do normal day-to-day tasks and go fishing, Tim consulted many orthopedic surgeons. After countless appointments and visiting other providers, Julie Clayton, D.C., of Lake View Family Chiropractic referred Tim to Northwest Iowa Bone Joint and Sports Surgeons, a hospital department of Buena Vista Regional Medical Center.
“The level of care that was displayed by the team in Storm Lake compared to others is off the charts, a night and day difference,” states Tim.
His first consultation was with Physician Assistant, Rachele Randall, in March 2019. She assessed his condition and worked collaboratively with Dr. Seth Harrer, Orthopedic Surgeon on the next steps.
When it was time to consider a total knee replacement, they discussed both knees. Most orthopedic surgeons, including Dr. Harrer, do not usually recommend doing both knees at the same time. However, there are some patients that meet certain criteria to have bi-lateral (both) knee replacement surgery.
“I was tired of not being able to do the activities that I love without pain. I work full-time and knew that I could only take off time for one procedure,” expressed Tim. While not common, Tim was evaluated and met the conditions for a bi-lateral knee replacement.
Tim was determined to get his mobility back, and Dr. Harrer agreed that he was young enough and committed to working hard to make the operation a success. They collaborated on how to approach the surgery, and he was back at home and doing physical therapy within three days.
“Most of our patients are leaving the hospital within 24-48 hours of admission, and they are ready to go home and continue their recovery, which is a significant change from where we were a few years ago,” Dr. Harrer said. “With advancements in procedures, equipment and pain management, you are back at home and enjoying everyday life before you know it.”
10 weeks later, Tim was back at work and back doing what he loves, fishing again.
“Having a support system is essential, especially when having surgery on both knees,” expresses Tim. “I could not have done it without my wife by my side the entire time, she was my rock.”
Now, 15 months post op, Tim is doing great. “I can’t express what it’s done to give me back a part of my life that was missing and pain-free now, too,” Tim said. “I’m so grateful for Dr. Harrer, Rachele, and the entire team of caretakers at BVRMC.”
In summarizing his experience with Dr. Harrer and the team at BVRMC and NWIBJSS, Tim shared, “The process was so smooth. I didn’t know what to expect. From my first consultation with Rachele, I knew I was in the right place. Those who set up the surgery schedule, the pre and post op nurses and physical therapists were just amazing.”
Although social distancing guidelines are in place, Tim jokes that next time he sees Dr. Harrer, he is going to give him a big hug.