Re: What Surgery? Confused.

[Guest guest]

To answer all your questions in one word, maybe.

I've read that resurfacing does not work well when the joint is bone on bone.

Others may have a more informed opinion. Also, check out the surface hippies

forum.

I don't consider myself obese, but I am 5' 11 " and was pushing 300 pounds

beforelosing weight for my fist surgery. I was 235 for the first THR surgery.

I was back to 280 shortly before my second surgery. I'm down to 240 and want to

lose another 50 pounds. Hahaha. Weight is our enemy.

All surgery has a degree of pain and discomfort to it. Pain management is not a

real problem for most. Usually all a patien has to do is ask for more pain

medications. If you are lucky they will hook you with Patient Controlled

Analgesia (PCA). You have an IV and press a button when you want more pain

medication. A couple days of some pain, probably no worse than you are

experiencing now, is worth being pain free for years.

The recovery period varies for everyone. For many, the first month is about a

week in the hospital and then 3 weeks of physical therapy. PT is not a lot of

fun. Hint, many people take a pain pill before or after PT. The next two

months may have incidents of pain or awkwardness when doing something unusual.

After 3 months most people have no problems with normal daily adult living

activities. Most people continue to get a small increase range of motion and

get stronger over the next 15 months.

Nothing is an absolute guaranteed success. THR is successful more than 99.9% of

the time. Only your doctor can tell you, after surgery, if you should be able

to return to horse riding. Generally, horse riding is not a prohibited

activity.

Yes a THR does eventually feel normal. By that I mean that you stop thinking

about it and simply live and enjoy activities without pain and without thinking

about it. Redundancy intentional.

Ask your doctor any and all questions not answered by your research.

R THR 3/20/2007

L THR 12/22/2009

Dr. Leo Whiteside

Mo. Bone & Joint Center

Des Peres Hospital(St. Louis, MO suburb)

>

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local with

an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in " end

stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are what

stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfacings. Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you. You gave me much info. I have seen in person 2 Dr.'s. One for

resurfacing & one for the THR. The resurfacing Dr. told me to lose weight & come

back in 1 yr. I am also consulting with a resurfacing Dr. in NYC who would

consider resurfacing me w/ my weight. He has seen my x-ray. As I told the Dr.

yesterday...I thought the resurfacing was to save my bone for a THR maybe 10-15

yrs. down the road. The Dr. yesterday...said that a THR should last 25/30 yrs.

so why go through surgery 2x.?, (or 4x if you count 2x each hip). I would like

the least amount of surgery as possible!! Both Dr.'s I saw in person did not say

I could not ride again and I made it very clear that is what I want to do! The

Dr. yesterday had done resurfacings in the 1970's...then he said because of

complications it was pulled from the market. Then recently it is FDA approved

again and few Dr.'s are doing the resurfacing because of the problems and he

also said the ball/joint is metal on metal and produces ions and he is afraid of

that because of the possibility of cancer...he said he would never put that in

anyone. I have been on " surface hippy " ,(a great group),....I was not

considering a THR until yesterday and seeing the local Dr. I am a lay person and

all the Dr.'s have said something different...however, they all agree my hips

are shot. Until 2 months ago this whole topic was foreign to me, now I must make

a decision, a huge decision...and I am having the Dr.'s giving me varying

information... still confused. How do I know what Dr. is correct? How do I know

what is best for me? How many Dr.'s opinions do I seek...how confused can I end

up?

Celeste

[Guest guest]

Celeste:

The hip resurfacing procedure is less invasive (smaller scar, retain femoral

head, etc.) than a THR and, in my opinion, presents less risk. Just curious,

does the surgeon you spoke with have the ability to perform both THRs and

resurfs? Would you mind sharing the surgeon's name? Thanks.

Don

Nothing Yet, Drs. P.Callendar, J. Dickinson, T. Sampson

On Feb 16, 2010, at 6:18 AM, celesteshearer@... wrote:

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local with

an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in " end

stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are what

stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfacings . Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

>

[Guest guest]

Celeste, I've had both hips resurfaced and was bone on bone on both. At your

relatively young age I would investigate resurfacing thoroughly. There are many

top docs that can resurface hip dysplasia if you do have that. Go to

surfacehippyinfo.com and join the Group Surface Hippy for more

information, they really helped me.

There are many hip replacement surgeons who discourage hip resurfacing because

they cannot do it. Watch out for that.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurfacings Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local with

an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in " end

stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are what

stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfacings. Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

[Guest guest]

Celeste;

I just had a THR on January 11th. I wasn't even aware that my hip was bad, just

having severe " thigh " pain. I had surgery on my right foot in September and

thought I was pulling the muscle on my left thigh. Well, was I ever wrong. My

left thigh sounded about like yours, " end stage " ; bone on bone; some cysts and

inflammation etc. My foot surgeon, one of the top guys in the nation for feet

and ankles, referred me to a hip surgeon who does the anterior approach and who

is also considered to be one of the best. He said that I didn't have any

options.......just a THR, and wanted to do it ASAP...wondered how I was even

walking. My other hip is 100% fine, and they think I just ruined the left hip

with 4 years of bad gait d/t the foot issues on the other side. Anyway, it was

a total shock to think I needed a hip replacement at my age (57).

Bottom line, I couldn't be happier. I had the surgery on Monday AM, was walking

100' with a walker by 4PM that day. I was released the following day and rode

home 2+ hours. I used crutches for about 2 weeks as per doctor's orders and was

told to use a cane for another 2 weeks. I didn't really need it, but the PT

didn't want me to get into a bad gait habit. I went back to work at 3 weeks

post surgery. I wouldn't do it any other way if I had the choice to do it over.

I am excited about Spring and being able to walk my dog again, goal of walking 2

miles, and riding my bike on the bike trail. I had no idea that my pain or

limitations were due to my hip, and only now see just how severely limiting it

was. I have been told that this anterior approach is bone sparing and that the

ceramic and titanium prosthesis is " state of the art " and will probably last at

least 25 years. However, if I do need another one.....no problem, with plenty

of bone left.

Just one person's experience of course. Good luck with your decision.

Kay

>

> Thank you. You gave me much info. I have seen in person 2 Dr.'s. One for

resurfacing & one for the THR. The resurfacing Dr. told me to lose weight & come

back in 1 yr. I am also consulting with a resurfacing Dr. in NYC who would

consider resurfacing me w/ my weight. He has seen my x-ray. As I told the Dr.

yesterday...I thought the resurfacing was to save my bone for a THR maybe 10-15

yrs. down the road. The Dr. yesterday...said that a THR should last 25/30 yrs.

so why go through surgery 2x.?, (or 4x if you count 2x each hip). I would like

the least amount of surgery as possible!! Both Dr.'s I saw in person did not say

I could not ride again and I made it very clear that is what I want to do! The

Dr. yesterday had done resurfacings in the 1970's...then he said because of

complications it was pulled from the market. Then recently it is FDA approved

again and few Dr.'s are doing the resurfacing because of the problems and he

also said the ball/joint is metal on metal and produces ions and he is afraid of

that because of the possibility of cancer...he said he would never put that in

anyone. I have been on " surface hippy " ,(a great group),....I was not

considering a THR until yesterday and seeing the local Dr. I am a lay person and

all the Dr.'s have said something different...however, they all agree my hips

are shot. Until 2 months ago this whole topic was foreign to me, now I must make

a decision, a huge decision...and I am having the Dr.'s giving me varying

information... still confused. How do I know what Dr. is correct? How do I know

what is best for me? How many Dr.'s opinions do I seek...how confused can I end

up?

> Celeste

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Don.

He resurfaced in the 70's. Then resurfacing was removed from being approved in

the USA, until recently. He said it is still risky, (having to have revisions),

he does not like the IONS it produces and sends into the body he also said for a

heavy person I have a much, much, higher risk of it failing. He said because it

is so risky he does not do it or advise it.

Dr. Bishop.

Thabks,

Celeste

Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Celeste:

The hip resurfacing procedure is less invasive (smaller scar, retain femoral

head, etc.) than a THR and, in my opinion, presents less risk. Just curious,

does the surgeon you spoke with have the ability to perform both THRs and

resurfs? Would you mind sharing the surgeon's name? Thanks.

Don

Nothing Yet, Drs. P.Callendar, J. Dickinson, T. Sampson

On Feb 16, 2010, at 6:18 AM, celesteshearer@... wrote:

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local with

an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in " end

stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are what

stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfacings . Now I am confused

. I am 49 yrs. old...active, (would like to get back in the saddle), &

obese...other than my weight I am in good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is

a replacement very painful? How is the recovery period? Does a replacement

eventually feel normal? Any input is appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

>

[Guest guest]

My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the point of a

stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR anyway...only want surgery on

each side!

Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Celeste, I've had both hips resurfaced and was bone on bone on both. At your

relatively young age I would investigate resurfacing thoroughly. There are many

top docs that can resurface hip dysplasia if you do have that. Go to

surfacehippyinfo.com and join the Group Surface Hippy for more

information, they really helped me.

There are many hip replacement surgeons who discourage hip resurfacing because

they cannot do it. Watch out for that.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurfacings Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local with

an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in " end

stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are what

stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfa cings. Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

[Guest guest]

Celeste,

I would agree with Hollie, look into hip resurfacing thoroughly, my surgeon

doesn't do them but I had my first hip done in 1993 and they weren't doing

them then.

I was 37.

Also I was told not to go horse back riding with my joint replacements, I

wish I could have had this done, as I have now had 2 revisions on the left

hip at 54.

So I haven't had a joint that's lasted beyond 15 years, the hip was only 8

years.

xx



mary.waspe@...

OSA member since 04/2002

photo's at jessoph0309.myphotoalbum.com

blog:- http://mary-museum.blogspot.com/

design for About Art Accents.,

-- Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Celeste, I've had both hips resurfaced and was bone on bone on both. At

your relatively young age I would investigate resurfacing thoroughly. There

are many top docs that can resurface hip dysplasia if you do have that. Go

to surfacehippyinfo.com and join the Group Surface Hippy for more

information, they really helped me.

There are many hip replacement surgeons who discourage hip resurfacing

because they cannot do it. Watch out for that.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurfacings Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

> Hi,

> My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local

with an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I

am in " end stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end

stage " are what stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He

said each hip was equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as

the spurs have reshaped them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see

me again the end of March. I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for

resurfacing and he said I had hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no

evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I saw yesterday did not think resurfacing

was the way to go. He also told me the THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am

confused. I am also an avid horse back rider, but now I cannot do that in my

current state. The Dr. yesterday said there are far more complications

w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many Dr.'s are doing resurfacings

Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active, (would like to get back in

the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in good health...well

weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is the recovery

period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is appreciated.

Trying to decide what to do.

> Thanks in advance,

> Celeste

>

------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> anyway...only want surgery on each side!

From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me that

the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can gather,

these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no matter

how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

(They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

Mick.

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

Thank you for all the useful information. This is still a nightmare I cannot

wake up from. The Dr. does not give me 3 yrs. to walk w/out having surgery. I am

concerned about my insurance situation. I am on my husband's policy from work. I

am self employed and could never afford insurance, I do not make much money. My

husband is very ill and we do not know how long he will be able to continue to

work and may have to go on permanent disability. If he does he will get medicaid

but I would not. I am 49 and too young for medicare. We are praying he can keep

working and he no longer can drive. I do a lot of care for him. What happens if

I get the surgery of some sort, (resurface or THR), and I need a revision and

have no ins. or dislocates or any of the dozens of problems I have been reading

about. What would I do? We are buried in debt from my husbands' illness. Would

i be left to suffer?

Celeste

Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> anyway...only want surgery on each side!

From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me that

the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can gather,

these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no matter

how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

(They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

Mick.

[Guest guest]

Hello:

I'd like to add that a resurfacing is not a stop gap surgery. It is very much

similar to a large ball metal-on-metal THR, and has the same life expectancy as

that surgical option. If resurfacing was expected to fail, and has shown that

it does indeed do that, I don't think people would be choosing it as an option.

I know I wouldn't have.

I chose resurfacing for many reasons, the main one being that IF I should need a

revision in the future, I have all my bone stock, and that revision will be

technically a primary THR.

Ruth Z amstutz C+ 4/6/06

>

>

> My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the point of

a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR anyway...only want surgery

on each side!

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Re: What Surgery? Confused.

>

>

>

>

>

> Celeste, I've had both hips resurfaced and was bone on bone on both. At your

relatively young age I would investigate resurfacing thoroughly. There are many

top docs that can resurface hip dysplasia if you do have that. Go to

surfacehippyinfo.com and join the Group Surface Hippy for more

information, they really helped me.

>

> There are many hip replacement surgeons who discourage hip resurfacing because

they cannot do it. Watch out for that.

>

> Hollie

>

> LR Hip Resurfacings Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

> LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

>

> > Hi,

> > My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local

with an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in

" end stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are

what stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfa cings. Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> > Thanks in advance,

> > Celeste

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Celeste,

What a lot you are dealing with!

I think it is good to be aware of potential problems but without

" borrowing trouble " as my Mom would say.

As I understand what you are saying

-- you currently have insurance coverage.

-- without surgery you face a near certainty of disability within 3

years

-- I did not hear that you have a higher than usual liklihood of

complications from surgery that would require revision etc

-- I didn't hear anything that says you would have a less than normal

chance of a good outcome from surgery

I think that the nature of a list like this is that we often talk

about problems that we are trying to solve. That skews the

conversation away from the good outcomes that are the norm. I know

that can trigger our worst fears.

What does your doc say about surgical outcomes for you?

Because your husband also needs care you might explore with the

hospital what support may be availabe to you during your own

recovery. Hospitals will often have social workers who can help find

resouces or if not can refer you to someone.

I'm sorry to hear about your difficult situation. I also trust that

you can work through the issues to come to a good decision. It sounds

critical that you do this soon, given your and your husband's health.

Best wishes to you both

Jackie

--

Jackie on

Borntodrum.org

Girights.net

AMIE Oakland, CA

510-332-5998

Sent from my iPhone with one finger typing; so apologies if I sound

abrupt ...not to mention typos!!

On Feb 19, 2010, at 5:25 AM, Cfourhorses@... wrote:

>

> Hi All,

> Thank you for all the useful information. This is still a nightmare

> I cannot wake up from. The Dr. does not give me 3 yrs. to walk w/out

> having surgery. I am concerned about my insurance situation. I am on

> my husband's policy from work. I am self employed and could never

> afford insurance, I do not make much money. My husband is very ill

> and we do not know how long he will be able to continue to work and

> may have to go on permanent disability. If he does he will get

> medicaid but I would not. I am 49 and too young for medicare. We are

> praying he can keep working and he no longer can drive. I do a lot

> of care for him. What happens if I get the surgery of some sort,

> (resurface or THR), and I need a revision and have no ins. or

> dislocates or any of the dozens of problems I have been reading

> about. What would I do? We are buried in debt from my husbands'

> illness. Would i be left to suffer?

> Celeste

>

>

> Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

>

> Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

>

> From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> that

> the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> gather,

> these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

> other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> matter

> how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

> new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

>

> Mick.

>

>

[Guest guest]

I am sorry to hear of your situation -- unfortunately it is a plight

that many Americans are in because of our current health insurance

policies which provide no protection for those who don't receive

health care through a major corporation.

ly if I were you I would get surgery as soon as possible while

you are still covered under your husband's policy because at least you

should be set until the system is either fixed or breaks down

completely. You can't predict what might happen 10 or 15 years down

the road but if you are in pain and insurance will cover a THR or

resurfacing, why wouldn't you do it while you have health isurance.

You would of course be able to use COBRA for health insurance for 18

months following the end of a job. Of course as many people discover

to their shock the premium once it is not subsidized by an employer is

very high. However, it is generally far lower than most middle aged

people with health issues would pay on the private market -- if they

could even get health insurance.

After that it's a state by state thing in terms of possibly being

eligible for some form of state health insurance. You don't mention

your working situation but many people get jobs specifically to

qualify for group health plans -- of course in this economy that is

sometimes easier said than done.

On Feb 19, 2010, at 5:25 AM, Cfourhorses@... wrote:

>

> Hi All,

> Thank you for all the useful information. This is still a nightmare

> I cannot wake up from. The Dr. does not give me 3 yrs. to walk w/out

> having surgery. I am concerned about my insurance situation. I am on

> my husband's policy from work. I am self employed and could never

> afford insurance, I do not make much money. My husband is very ill

> and we do not know how long he will be able to continue to work and

> may have to go on permanent disability. If he does he will get

> medicaid but I would not. I am 49 and too young for medicare. We are

> praying he can keep working and he no longer can drive. I do a lot

> of care for him. What happens if I get the surgery of some sort,

> (resurface or THR), and I need a revision and have no ins. or

> dislocates or any of the dozens of problems I have been reading

> about. What would I do? We are buried in debt from my husbands'

> illness. Would i be left to suffer?

> Celeste

>

>

> Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

>

> Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

>

> From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> that

> the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> gather,

> these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

> other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> matter

> how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

> new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

>

> Mick.

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I agree. I do not have marketable skills to land a skilled job w/ health ins. I

have a small pet grooming business from my home and care for my husband and a

mentally disabled lady which brings in a little $$. I also work at the stable

where I keep my horse and my daughter's horse, (she is in college and lives away

from home). I work at the stable to offset the high cost of boarding the horses.

We live in the village and cannot keep the horses at home on a 50X 125' lot. I

am stilled stunned I have this condition, end stage hip failure/ SEVERE

arthritis. What happened to the other stages? Where did this come from? I was

the invincible one, the care taker of all! I am angry and want to wake up from

this! I have always been an active outdoors's person! Now suddenly I am 3 yrs.

away from a wheel chair? What kind of cruel joke is this? My family has no

history of this! All the Dr.'s I see say something else, hip dysplasia, no hip

dysplasia..... bone on bone, not bone on bone,too heavy for resurfacing, not too

heavy for resurfacing. I do like the thought of staying local as I do not have

much of a support system or the $$ to be out of town in expensive hotels by

myself. IF my husband has to go on the permanent disability we will not be able

to afford our home and will most likley end up in public housing anyway...what a

way to end up after working hard all our lives. I am 49 and hubby is 53. Geesh.

Thank you so much!

Celeste

Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

>

> Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

>

> From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> that

> the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> gather,

> these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

> other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> matter

> how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

> new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

>

> Mick.

>

>

[Guest guest]

Again I commiserate with your situation.

I was also relatively young when I had THR -- 56 and the pain started

about two years prior to then but I couldn't have the surgery because

of my job. For me the cause remains inscrutable as my other hip is

perfect -- as are all other joints.

I don't see how you have any choice in terms of having the surgery as

quickly as possible. Realistically you need to find an OS within a

reasonable distance from your home. I don't think most people travel

because generally there are first rate facilities located in every

state. Where are you located?

I don't understand why you are getting such conflicting diagnoses --

bone on bone is NOT a tricky thing. My OS showed me an X-RAY and it

was completely obvious to even me as there was literally no " space "

between the bones in one hip -- as opposed to the healthy hip.

Many people have limited choices based on their insurance carriers

anyway - For a variety of reasons, it's not economically feasible for

most people to fly great distances for surgery -- logistical reasons,

economic reasons as well as insurance which doesn't cover out of state/

out of network doctors.

On Feb 19, 2010, at 9:41 AM, Cfourhorses@... wrote:

>

>

>

> Hi,

> I agree. I do not have marketable skills to land a skilled job w/

> health ins. I have a small pet grooming business from my home and

> care for my husband and a mentally disabled lady which brings in a

> little $$. I also work at the stable where I keep my horse and my

> daughter's horse, (she is in college and lives away from home). I

> work at the stable to offset the high cost of boarding the horses.

> We live in the village and cannot keep the horses at home on a 50X

> 125' lot. I am stilled stunned I have this condition, end stage hip

> failure/ SEVERE arthritis. What happened to the other stages? Where

> did this come from? I was the invincible one, the care taker of all!

> I am angry and want to wake up from this! I have always been an

> active outdoors's person! Now suddenly I am 3 yrs. away from a wheel

> chair? What kind of cruel joke is this? My family has no history of

> this! All the Dr.'s I see say something else, hip dysplasia, no hip

> dysplasia..... bone on bone, not bone on bone,too heavy for

> resurfacing, not too heavy for resurfacing. I do like the thought of

> staying local as I do not have much of a support system or the $$ to

> be out of town in expensive hotels by myself. IF my husband has to

> go on the permanent disability we will not be able to afford our

> home and will most likley end up in public housing anyway...what a

> way to end up after working hard all our lives. I am 49 and hubby is

> 53. Geesh. Thank you so much!

> Celeste

>

> Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

> >

> > Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is

> the

> > > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

> >

> > From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> > replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> > supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> > prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> > that

> > the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> > gather,

> > these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's

> the

> > other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> > matter

> > how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor,

> the

> > new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> > (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

> >

> > Mick.

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

When it comes to THR and hip re-surfacing the glass is definitely more than half

full. Success rates are around 98% or higher depending on who does the surgery

and where the surgery is done.

It seems to me that you will be in a better situation for many years after you

have your hip fixed than if you don't have it fixed. You can't cross the bridge

of how to get follow on care for your THR if you are in the ditch with bone on

bone pain. Sometimes it is better to narrow your focus and take the short term

good with uncertainty about the future. There is no certainty that you will

have a dis-location or infection. There is no guarantee as to how long a THR

will last for each person. It's wise to look ahead at future possibilities, but

crystal balls and time machines still don't tell us the future.

The decision is totally up to you. You do sound to me like someone that is

becoming immobilized by the fear of the unknown and remote possibility of

complications. I was there for several years. I was bone on bone and taking 2

vicodin every 6 hours as needed for pain. I had necrotizing bone on the femural

head and the acetabulum. Dead and dying bone has to be removed and can leave

less bone than desired to attach the cup to the pelvis. My family has a history

of allergies to all kinds of things. My Aunt was allergic to most metals,

plastic, nylon, perfumes, and all kinds of stuff. I have many allergies also,

and was worried about becoming allergic to either the titanium, the plasma

coating, or the hdpe plastic insert. The pain finally got so bad, I just wanted

it to stop. So far, the only regret I have is postponing surgery because I was

worried about possible complications.

>

> >

> > Hi All,

> > Thank you for all the useful information. This is still a nightmare

> > I cannot wake up from. The Dr. does not give me 3 yrs. to walk w/out

> > having surgery. I am concerned about my insurance situation. I am on

> > my husband's policy from work. I am self employed and could never

> > afford insurance, I do not make much money. My husband is very ill

> > and we do not know how long he will be able to continue to work and

> > may have to go on permanent disability. If he does he will get

> > medicaid but I would not. I am 49 and too young for medicare. We are

> > praying he can keep working and he no longer can drive. I do a lot

> > of care for him. What happens if I get the surgery of some sort,

> > (resurface or THR), and I need a revision and have no ins. or

> > dislocates or any of the dozens of problems I have been reading

> > about. What would I do? We are buried in debt from my husbands'

> > illness. Would i be left to suffer?

> > Celeste

> >

> >

> > Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

> >

> > Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> > > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

> >

> > From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> > replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> > supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> > prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> > that

> > the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> > gather,

> > these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

> > other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> > matter

> > how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

> > new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> > (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

> >

> > Mick.

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I do not understand the conflicting thoughts of the Dr.'s either...I either am

bone on bone or not...I would think I either have dysplasia or not! They are

viewing the same X-ray, I am in rural upstate NY. I am consulting w/ Dr. Su in

NYC...however, the distance and lack of help and funds seem to make this 300

mile distance just about insurmountable. My husband would like me to be closer

to home. Dr. Bishop who I saw Monday in Elmira would do the THR's. He does not

advocate resurfacing. He did it in the 70's and has been following it. He said I

am too heavy as does Dr. M.T. e in Syracuse. Dr.e said lose 40 lbs.

and come back in 1 yr. Debating if I should get even more confused and see Dr.

Drinkwater next month in Rochester who does resurfacing & THR, he is not on the

list of the most experienced hip resurfacers. I am very confused and the

conflicting conversations with the Dr.'s is not reassuring. They all agree I

need something. I am too far gone for arthroscopic surgery. Monday Dr. Bishop

sat with me and explained my x-ray. He said my balls are not round anymore but

the bone spurs have reshaped them to oblong. He also showed me the bone on bone

as there is no cartilage. He was amazed I was not in more pain than I am.Dr.

Bishop is also afraid of the IONS the metal on metal resurfacing ball emits into

the body and I guess there is uncertainty about possible carcinogenic effects

and he said he would not put that in anybody. He has a superb reputation in this

area.

Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

> >

> > Cfourhorses@... said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> > > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> > > point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> > > anyway...only want surgery on each side!

> >

> > From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

> > replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

> > supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

> > prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me

> > that

> > the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can

> > gather,

> > these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

> > other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no

> > matter

> > how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

> > new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

> > (They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

> >

> > Mick.

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Dr. Su is one of the most respected doctors in the world and is exactly where

you should be going for your surgery. I sent my XRays to Dr. Su for

consultation and he got right back to me and I am in California. I would not

hesitate to fly from here to Dr. Su in NYC for hip surgery. He is one of the

few that can do resurfacing with difficult cases like dysplasia and he does

replacements too.

Dr. Su is the gold standard, and I've been told his hospital has the lowest

infection rate in the US.

He was not on my radar in 2006 and 2007 when I flew to South Carolina to have my

hips resurfed by another very good doctor, Dr. Gross. If I had known about Dr.

Su at that time I would have gone to him.

But I'm very pleased with my resurfs, I don't ever think about them now, my hips

act totally natural. I'm alway falling right on the incision and I'm always OK

(I fall because my knees are recovering from TKRs and I'm doing floor

exercises). I can do anything with my resurfed hips.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurfs Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

>

> I do not understand the conflicting thoughts of the Dr.'s either...I either

am bone on bone or not...I would think I either have dysplasia or not! They are

viewing the same X-ray, I am in rural upstate NY. I am consulting w/ Dr. Su in

NYC...however, the distance and lack of help and funds seem to make this 300

mile distance just about insurmountable. My husband would like me to be closer

to home. Dr. Bishop who I saw Monday in Elmira would do the THR's. He does not

advocate resurfacing. He did it in the 70's and has been following it. He said I

am too heavy as does Dr. M.T. e in Syracuse. Dr.e said lose 40 lbs.

and come back in 1 yr. Debating if I should get even more confused and see Dr.

Drinkwater next month in Rochester who does resurfacing & THR, he is not on the

list of the most experienced hip resurfacers. I am very confused and the

conflicting conversations with the Dr.'s is not reassuring. They all agree I

need something. I am too far gone for arthroscopic surgery. Monday Dr. Bishop

sat with me and explained my x-ray. He said my balls are not round anymore but

the bone spurs have reshaped them to oblong. He also showed me the bone on bone

as there is no cartilage. He was amazed I was not in more pain than I am.Dr.

Bishop is also afraid of the IONS the metal on metal resurfacing ball emits into

the body and I guess there is uncertainty about possible carcinogenic effects

and he said he would not put that in anybody. He has a superb reputation in this

area.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dr. Su emailed this afternoon. He suggests a THR for me because of my high

weight and horse back riding.

Celeste

Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Dr. Su is one of the most respected doctors in the world and is exactly where

you should be going for your surgery. I sent my XRays to Dr. Su for

consultation and he got right back to me and I am in California. I would not

hesitate to fly from here to Dr. Su in NYC for hip surgery. He is one of the

few that can do resurfacing with difficult cases like dysplasia and he does

replacements too.

Dr. Su is the gold standard, and I've been told his hospital has the lowest

infection rate in the US.

He was not on my radar in 2006 and 2007 when I flew to South Carolina to have my

hips resurfed by another very good doctor, Dr. Gross. If I had known about Dr.

Su at that time I would have gone to him.

But I'm very pleased with my resurfs, I don't ever think about them now, my hips

act totally natural. I'm alway falling right on the incision and I'm always OK

(I fall because my knees are recovering from TKRs and I'm doing floor

exercises). I can do anything with my resurfed hips.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurfs Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

>

> I do not understand the conflicting thoughts of the Dr.'s either...I either

am bone on bone or not...I would think I either have dysplasia or not! They are

viewing the same X-ray, I am in rural upstate NY. I am consulting w/ Dr. Su in

NYC...however, the distance and lack of help and funds seem to make this 300

mile distance just about insurmountable. My husband would like me to be closer

to home. Dr. Bishop who I saw Monday in Elmira would do the THR's. He does not

advocate resurfacing. He did it in the 70's and has been following it. He said I

am too heavy as does Dr. M.T. e in Syracuse. Dr.e said lose 40 lbs.

and come back in 1 yr. Debating if I should get even more confused and see Dr.

Drinkwater next month in Rochester who does resurfacing & THR, he is not on the

list of the most experienced hip resurfacers. I am very confused and the

conflicting conversations with the Dr.'s is not reassuring. They all agree I

need something. I am too far gone for arth roscopic surgery. Monday Dr. Bishop

sat with me and explained my x-ray. He said my balls are not round anymore but

the bone spurs have reshaped them to oblong. He also showed me the bone on bone

as there is no cartilage. He was amazed I was not in more pain than I am.Dr.

Bishop is also afraid of the IONS the metal on metal resurfacing ball emits into

the body and I guess there is uncertainty about possible carcinogenic effects

and he said he would not put that in anybody. He has a superb reputation in this

area.

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I would trust Dr. Su to do whatever is best for you. I am surprised he is not

doing a resurf but I'm sure his replacements are fantastic too. He is a master

resurfacing surgeon, so if he says no I would trust him above all others.

About his hospital and low infection rate:

http://www.hss.edu/newsroom_hss-remains-top-orthopedic-hospital.asp

For the 19th consecutive year, Hospital for Special Surgery has ranked above all

other hospitals in the Northeast in orthopedics.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) ranks second in the nation in orthopedics by

U.S.News & World Report in its 2009 "

Studying the 171 hospitals in New York that performed hip replacement/revision

surgery in 2008, the report singled out Special Surgery as the only hospital in

New York State with a statistically lower rate of surgical site infection

compared to the state average for the procedure.

Go for it, you've got the best surgeon and hospital only a drive away.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurf 2006, 2007 Dr. Gross

LR TKRs 2008, 2009 Dr. Coon

>

>

> Dr. Su emailed this afternoon. He suggests a THR for me because of my high

weight and horse back riding.

> Celeste

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Re: What Surgery? Confused.

>

>

>

>

>

> Dr. Su is one of the most respected doctors in the world and is exactly where

you should be going for your surgery. I sent my XRays to Dr. Su for

consultation and he got right back to me and I am in California. I would not

hesitate to fly from here to Dr. Su in NYC for hip surgery. He is one of the

few that can do resurfacing with difficult cases like dysplasia and he does

replacements too.

>

> Dr. Su is the gold standard, and I've been told his hospital has the lowest

infection rate in the US.

>

> He was not on my radar in 2006 and 2007 when I flew to South Carolina to have

my hips resurfed by another very good doctor, Dr. Gross. If I had known about

Dr. Su at that time I would have gone to him.

>

> But I'm very pleased with my resurfs, I don't ever think about them now, my

hips act totally natural. I'm alway falling right on the incision and I'm

always OK (I fall because my knees are recovering from TKRs and I'm doing floor

exercises). I can do anything with my resurfed hips.

>

> Hollie

>

> LR Hip Resurfs Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

> LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

>

> >

> > I do not understand the conflicting thoughts of the Dr.'s either...I either

am bone on bone or not...I would think I either have dysplasia or not! They are

viewing the same X-ray, I am in rural upstate NY. I am consulting w/ Dr. Su in

NYC...however, the distance and lack of help and funds seem to make this 300

mile distance just about insurmountable. My husband would like me to be closer

to home. Dr. Bishop who I saw Monday in Elmira would do the THR's. He does not

advocate resurfacing. He did it in the 70's and has been following it. He said I

am too heavy as does Dr. M.T. e in Syracuse. Dr.e said lose 40 lbs.

and come back in 1 yr. Debating if I should get even more confused and see Dr.

Drinkwater next month in Rochester who does resurfacing & THR, he is not on the

list of the most experienced hip resurfacers. I am very confused and the

conflicting conversations with the Dr.'s is not reassuring. They all agree I

need something. I am too far gone for arth roscopic surgery. Monday Dr. Bishop

sat with me and explained my x-ray. He said my balls are not round anymore but

the bone spurs have reshaped them to oblong. He also showed me the bone on bone

as there is no cartilage. He was amazed I was not in more pain than I am.Dr.

Bishop is also afraid of the IONS the metal on metal resurfacing ball emits into

the body and I guess there is uncertainty about possible carcinogenic effects

and he said he would not put that in anybody. He has a superb reputation in this

area.

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Does Dr. Su do TKR as well as THR? I am in Scranton Pennsylvania , was scheduled

to have BLTKR Feb. 1st, but had to delay it as I broke my elbow..My OS is

regarded as the best in his field in this area, he does MIS, but when I asked if

it is quad sparing, he said no , the tendons are not cut but separated during

the surgery.but the surgery is minimally invasive. 

Anyone have any information on Dr. Su and TKR's?

Thanks..

Karla

[Guest guest]

I believe Dr. Su does TKRs but do not think he does quad sparing. There is

little crossover between top hip resurfacing OSs and top TKR OSs. My great

resurfacing surgeon only did traditional TKRs. I did have a consult on my knee

XRays from Dr. Su through email to verify that I did absolutely need a TKR.

Reading the hospital website, they do mention MIS that sounds like quad sparing,

however it is Dr. Haas that is head of the knee department.

http://www.hss.edu/conditions_new-minimally-invasive-technique-improves-recovery\

-time.asp

For your location in Scranton, PA (Is that the home of the show, The Office?),

there is another great option about the same distance away. Dr. Tria who

developed the quad sparing procedure with my TKR OS, Dr. Coon, is located in

Somerset, NJ.

Some info on Dr. Tria:

http://www.zimmer.com/z/ctl/op/global/action/1/id/9406/template/MP/prcat/M1/prod\

/y

A 2004 article from Zimmer (the quad sparing docs do not have to use Zimmer

prostheses):

http://www.zimmer.com/z/ctl/op/global/action/1/id/8763/template/PC

And his office:

http://www.rwjuh.edu/physicians/physician_profile.aspx?physicianid=1474

If I were you, I would call both hospitals and doctor's offices, find out if HSS

in NY does real quad sparing where you are released within at most 48 hours from

surgery (I was released and walked out less than 24 hours after surgery).

Call Dr. Tria's office and find out what his infection rate is and his

hospital's infection rate, compare to HSS. Usually surgeons like Tria are

connected with smaller hospitals with low infection rates where they pretty much

run the show due to their many patients using the hospital. Also ask how long

in hospital.

Also find out how many quad sparing surgeries each surgeon has done, the more

the better. Dr. Coon has done over 4,000. I would be looking to Dr. Haas

probably more than Dr. Su for quad sparing, but check them both out.

Another question that has worked well for me... " will I be able to kneel after

the TKR " ? It is surprising how many docs say no. My OS, Dr. Coon said yes,

whereas my hip resurfacing OS said no. Dr. Coon had far fewer restrictions, I

can ski, do yoga, anything I did before surgery except repetitive impact like

running for sport. Dr. Coon and probably Dr. Tria only do knees.

You are very lucky to be so close to this many good surgeons and hospitals.

Hollie

LR Hip Resurf 2006, 2007 Dr. Gross

LR TKR 2008, 2009 Dr. Coon

>

> Does Dr. Su do TKR as well as THR? I am in Scranton Pennsylvania , was

scheduled to have BLTKR Feb. 1st, but had to delay it as I broke my elbow..My OS

is regarded as the best in his field in this area, he does MIS, but when I asked

if it is quad sparing, he said no , the tendons are not cut but separated during

the surgery.but the surgery is minimally invasive. 

>

> Anyone have any information on Dr. Su and TKR's?

>

> Thanks..

>

> Karla

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Ruth,

You have hit the nail directly on the head. Resurfacing is for younger people

in order to keep all their bone in the event of a THR down the road. Sure some

older people opt for a replacement too, but with the possibility of fracture in

older, softer bones it becomes something of a risk. At almost 70, I went for an

Anterior Approach hip replacement and at four days post surgery, I am walking

around pretty much unaided.

Judy McG

> >

> >

> > My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the point

of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR anyway...only want

surgery on each side!

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Re: What Surgery? Confused.

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Celeste, I've had both hips resurfaced and was bone on bone on both. At

your relatively young age I would investigate resurfacing thoroughly. There are

many top docs that can resurface hip dysplasia if you do have that. Go to

surfacehippyinfo.com and join the Group Surface Hippy for more

information, they really helped me.

> >

> > There are many hip replacement surgeons who discourage hip resurfacing

because they cannot do it. Watch out for that.

> >

> > Hollie

> >

> > LR Hip Resurfacings Dr. Gross 2006, 2007

> > LR TKRs Dr. Coon 2008, 2009

> >

> > > Hi,

> > > My 1st time on this site. I saw an orthopedist yesterday that was local

with an excellent reputation. He sat down with me and my x-rays. He said I am in

" end stage " hip arthritis or something like that...the words " end stage " are

what stuck w/me. He said I am bone on bone in many places. He said each hip was

equally as bad. My ball is no longer round but oblong as the spurs have reshaped

them. Today I get my hips injected. The Dr. will see me again the end of March.

I have looked into resurfacing. I saw one Dr. for resurfacing and he said I had

hip dyplasia...this Dr. said there is no evidence of nip dysplasia. The Dr. I

saw yesterday did not think resurfacing was the way to go. He also told me the

THR now should last 25/30 yrs. I am confused. I am also an avid horse back

rider, but now I cannot do that in my current state. The Dr. yesterday said

there are far more complications w/resurfacing than THR and as a result not many

Dr.'s are doing resurfa cings. Now I am confused. I am 49 yrs. old...active,

(would like to get back in the saddle), & obese...other than my weight I am in

good health...well weight and hips, LOL. Is a replacement very painful? How is

the recovery period? Does a replacement eventually feel normal? Any input is

appreciated. Trying to decide what to do.

> > > Thanks in advance,

> > > Celeste

> > >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

I am beginning to wonder if I did enough homework before I had my TKR surgery.

Not that I am second guressing now, but I never heard of quad sparing until I

read this forum. I was told my surgery was computer assisted, minimally

invasive, but I have a pretty long scar. How minimal is minimal? Did any of you

have the same?

Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Does Dr. Su do TKR as well as THR? I am in Scranton Pennsylvania , was

scheduled to have BLTKR Feb. 1st, but had to delay it as I broke my elbow..My OS

is regarded as the best in his field in this area, he does MIS, but when I asked

if it is quad sparing, he said no , the tendons are not cut but separated during

the surgery.but the surgery is minimally invasive.

Anyone have any information on Dr. Su and TKR's?

Thanks..

Karla

[Guest guest]

Sounds to me that the thing to do is get the surgery done now while you're still

covered by insurance.

________________________________

From: " Cfourhorses@... " <Cfourhorses@...>

Joint Replacement

Sent: Fri, February 19, 2010 5:25:28 AM

Subject: Re: Re: What Surgery? Confused.

 

Hi All,

Thank you for all the useful information. This is still a nightmare I cannot

wake up from. The Dr. does not give me 3 yrs. to walk w/out having surgery. I am

concerned about my insurance situation. I am on my husband's policy from work. I

am self employed and could never afford insurance, I do not make much money. My

husband is very ill and we do not know how long he will be able to continue to

work and may have to go on permanent disability. If he does he will get medicaid

but I would not. I am 49 and too young for medicare. We are praying he can keep

working and he no longer can drive. I do a lot of care for him. What happens if

I get the surgery of some sort, (resurface or THR), and I need a revision and

have no ins. or dislocates or any of the dozens of problems I have been reading

about. What would I do? We are buried in debt from my husbands' illness. Would i

be left to suffer?

Celeste

Re: [Total_Joint_ Replacement] Re: What Surgery? Confused.

Cfourhorses@ aol.com said the following on 19/02/2010 00:34:

> My local Dr. said that a new hip should last 25/30 yrs. What is the

> point of a stop gap resurface when you have to go for the THR

> anyway...only want surgery on each side!

From everything that I have learned about the different types of hip

replacements, I think your 'dr.' is being a little optimistic. I'm

supposed to have been fitted with one of the most advanced types of

prosthesis - large head ceramic on ceramic, and my surgeon told me that

the estimated life span of these is 15-20 years. From all I can gather,

these new joints may 'wear' well enough for 25-30 years, but it's the

other issue that is the problem, that of joint loosening, and no matter

how superior they make the new prosthesis in terms of wear factor, the

new technologies have little impact on the joint loosening problem.

(They need to develop a stronger glue!!! ;^) )

Mick.