Northwest Arkansas Couple Finds Relief Through "His and Hers" Knee Replacements
3/10/2026
BENTONVILLE, Ark. — What began as surgery to fix a painful knee replacement turned into a potentially lifesaving discovery for Robert Merritt, a 65-year-old retired Air Force veteran and former marathon runner who recently moved to Northwest Arkansas to be closer to family.
After relocating from central Arkansas 18 months ago, Robert sought relief for a 2021 knee replacement that had never properly healed. His primary care provider, Whitney Oliver, PA-C, with Northwest Medical Plaza at Sugar Creek referred him to Ron Schechter, M.D., FAAOS, at Northwest Orthopedics – Bentonville. Dr. Schechter specializes in joint replacement and revision procedures, which are performed when a previous implant fails or becomes loose. Knee replacement is one of the most common orthopedic procedures for adults experiencing severe arthritis or joint damage, helping restore mobility and reduce chronic pain. During Robert’s evaluation, Dr. Schechter discovered the original surgical device had become loose.
“Every day, every step I took I felt it,” Robert said of his life prior to the revision. “Oh, I was miserable.”
Despite his apprehension about a second procedure, Robert underwent total knee revision surgery in September 2025. During the procedure, Robert experienced an unexpected heart rhythm complication. Dr. Schechter paused the surgery so the team could stabilize him before completing the revision successfully.
Following the surgery, Robert stayed overnight and saw a cardiologist the next day. Doctors placed a heart monitor on him to track his heart rhythm for 30 days. The monitoring revealed an abnormal rhythm, and Robert later received a pacemaker.
“I tell people that Dr. Schechter possibly saved my life by doing the knee surgery,” said Robert, who had never experienced cardiac symptoms previously. “He’s an amazing doctor. And a good person.”
Robert reported immediate relief from his chronic joint pain when he woke from the procedure. While rehabilitation is challenging, Robert says it’s worth it. “PT is painful, but it’s necessary,” he said.
Robert’s successful recovery didn’t just restore his mobility – it also gave his wife the confidence to address her own knee pain. Seeing his progress firsthand, Lori, 64, decided it was time to take the same step.
Lori, who had been hesitant about surgery, underwent a total knee replacement with Dr. Schechter in January 2026 after witnessing her husband’s recovery and the compassion of the surgical team.
“I’m still going through PT but doing quite well,” Lori said, two months into her recovery. “There are goals you have to meet before the doctor signs you off. They push you to that. It’s tough, but we’re getting there.”
The Merritts describe their experience with Northwest Orthopedics – Bentonville and the hospital staff as exceptional, highlighting the attentiveness of the medical team and Dr. Schechter’s thorough, calming approach.
“Dr. Schechter was very thorough. Very calming and very easy to talk with. He showed illustrations to help explain everything,” Robert said.
While the first few months of recovery are demanding, the Merritts say the long-term benefits of pain-free mobility far outweigh the temporary discomfort of physical therapy.
Now, the couple encourages others experiencing chronic knee pain not to delay seeking help.
If you are experiencing joint pain or other orthopedic issues, visit NW-Physicians.com to request an appointment with a Northwest orthopedics provider.
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