Colorectal Cancer Community

I am a 66 yr old male with a compromised immune system. I was hospitalized for 2 wk in Dec 2006 with a MRSA infection diagnosed as cellulitis of the right hand. I was released and treated for 6 mo as an outpatient. I developed mobility problems during 2007. I was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis but osteonecrosis in particular in my left hip. I had a THR in June of 2008. 1 mo after surgery I developed a MRSA infection in my left hip incision. I was treated as an outpatient for a yr and a half for this infection. In Jan 2009 I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. I went through radiation and chemotherapy prior to having a lower anterior ressection in July 2009. This surgery was followed by 3-4 mo more of chemo. I have only had a short bout of c diff colitis and some lingering radiation enteritis but otherwise, have been upgraded to the category of survivor. I was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer, and of course am complying with all followup tests and procedures. My right knee has now deteriorated significantly to the point that my surgeon is recommending a total replacement but has voiced concern about my history of MRSA. The hospital computers indicate MRSA cultures were grown from my blood samples. My surgeon naturally has ordered a battery of tests including a bone scan, before he makes a decision, but all the results won;t be in for about a month. Of course he won't tell me much of a definite nature until all the test results are in. I understand this. I trust him completely. However, until then I am sitting on the edge of my chair, wondering about the risks and safety of a total right knee replacement surgery at this point, given my history of infection and the cancer.