Tibial rod removal for knee replacement

Hi everyone

I currently have both a femoral and tibial rod in my left leg. I have osteoarthritis in the left knee and it is recommended I have a full knee replacement. I spoke to another specialist yesterday and he said I have to have the tibial rod removed because of the stem on the tibial portion of the knee replacement hardware.

Has anyone been in this situation before?

Thanks,
Shannon

Also if you have any knowledge about knee replacements pre-pregnancy I'd love to hear about it