Donna’s Tooth Infection in 2012 after Hip Resurfacing with Dr. Su in 2008

I had both my hips resurfaced 9/2008 Dr. Su. Been feeling wonderful, exercising every day – pool and spinning.

This past April 2012, I had a cracked tooth under a cap. I had some pain but nothing that I had to act immediately on. My dentist said to go a specialist and begin treatment for an implant. I took my meds as prescribed. I must have waited about 2 weeks and then went to have my tooth extracted and start the process for the implant. He was amazed that I wasn’t in pain with the raging infection I had in my tooth. I continued my meds for another week. Feeling good and full of energy.

About a month later during the day I wasn’t feeling well and developed a high fever. By evening my husband rushed me to the hospital, I couldn’t walk, high fever, and excruitating pain. My hips were infected. Overlook Hospital rushed me to HSS. Once they discovered what type of infection I had (Strep) I had to have surgery. They typically take out your hips, but I was very fortunate. They went back in and cleaned it out. I was in the hospital for about 15 days and came home with IV meds for another few weeks. During that time I did develop C diff and drug fevers. I then had to go back into the hospital for another 5 days.

IF I had known what I know now, I would have been more diligent with my tooth infection and getting it pulled immediately!! In keeping the story short on the website, at the time of my infection, I was taking care of my 93 year old mother, who was going for a mastectomy, and also living life (a travelling husband and 2 teenagers). I put it on hold for a few weeks, along with the cost of going for an implant ($). HAD I had known what I was in for I would have had it out IMMEDIATELY. It cost me dearly–awful event and was very very sick. It was traumatic, and I still struggle with it today. I beat myself up saying, what could I have done differently?

It was NOT a fun experience and very scary! I felt I did everything the Drs. told me. I wish I had the tooth pulled immediately. Do not fool around with any type of infection – particularly in the mouth. I will now be on antibiotics for a very long time – probably my lifetime which concerns me.

I will say this, if this had to happen, I was very lucky and blessed to be at HSS with Dr. Su and his staff!