“Dr. Rachala is not only very professional but also very kind and personal. He remembers my parents, whom he has cared for, and my husband, and always asks about them. Lyn, his PA, is also amazing. She is kind, very gentle and professional. I do not feel like a number but truly like someone they care about.”
Suzanne Russo loves kayaking and spending time with her two-year-old grandson. As an active, 61-year-old full-time nurse who cares for mothers and infants during labor, delivery and post birth, she knows the importance of being fully mobile without pain.
Having suffered from severe arthritis in her knees, Russo sought care from Sridhar R. Rachala, MD, back in 2015. Dr. Rachala performed total joint replacement on both of her knees at the same time, and in just 12 weeks, she was back to her full-time nursing job in the hospital, with full mobility and no restrictions.
Here, Russo shares her most recent experience with UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, talks about the compassionate care she received from her whole care team and offers advice for other people dealing with similar knee issues.
What made you seek UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for treatment?
Severe arthritis for knee replacement surgery in 2015. Then, this March 2024, while on vacation, I took a tumble and landed on my right knee. Three days later, my knee became infected, and Dr. Rachala was able to drain and wash out my knee, saving me from the infection spreading and damaging my hardware! I am forever grateful for his professional care and his support of me. At the time of all of this, my father passed. Dr. Rachala was so kind and compassionate with me, as was everyone at Buffalo General Medical Center. I am grateful for everyone’s kindness and compassion.
What was the diagnosis and recommended treatment?
Bilateral total knee replacement in 2015. Irrigation and Debridement (I&D) procedure to access and wash out my right knee in 2024.
Can you tell us about the care you received?
Dr. Rachala is not only very professional but also very kind and personal. He remembers my parents, whom he has cared for, and my husband, and always asks about them. Lyn, his PA, is also amazing. She is kind, very gentle and professional. I do not feel like a number but truly like someone they care about.
What was the best part of your experience with UBMD Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine?
Feeling like a person with feelings and fears that are always validated.
What are you doing now to actively prevent a recurring injury?
Trying not to fall!!
What does feeling better mean to you and your life?
I am more active, and I no longer have any knee pain.
What advice do you have for those dealing with a similar injury?
Do it while you are young! The pain from post op and rehab is far less than the pain and disability of walking around on bone-on-bone knees.