Looking forward to surgery with Dr. Gross!

[Tin Soldier]

I had about 6 months too and I really liked the solidness and strength of my previously operated hip during recovery on the most recent one.  Although, I didn't like the nerves I had for the second surgery.  My wife and I had twins and never knew what it was like having one and then another, so maybe it is good to get it all over with in one event.  Not much help here, I guess.   

[ctb]

Arrrrgggghhh!!!!! I missed his call!!!!!!!!!!!!  I can't believe it.  My stupid cell was on vibrate and he called my office and left a message, but I was at home.  I tried to call back but it went right to the answering service.  Whaaaaaa!!!

[newdog]

Aw man, Catherine, I can imagine how that feels.   :'(  It's O.K. though, you'll get to talk to him. It is not difficult to get in contact with him or Lee. They will return calls and emails usually within the same day. They are very good with that.

You asked how is it to manage with no leg support. Actually there is leg support. You will be able to walk very well with the crutches. Unless you are on what is called 10% weight bearing (I believe that's the right name for it) you will be putting full weight on the operated hips hours after each surgery. The crutches are necessary to keep your balance and they support you because the legs will be weak and wobbly for a while. I never used crutches before and got around fine. You will need assistance lifting your legs in and out of bed and the car until the muscles regain enough strength to do it yourself. You'll be using more upper body strength to move yourself around. Using stairs requires more time and extreme caution because you need to be very careful to guard against falling. I am not trying to make it sound easy because it's not. It can be a challenge and requires patience to get through the first week or two but I didn't feel it was a terrible ordeal at all. You just have to accept that you had major surgery and you'll be spending some time healing and getting your strength back. You'll get loads of help and advice on this forum from the other Hippys. I was on two crutches for two weeks, then one crutch for one week then a cane for about another week and a half. Now that's was me and you may be longer or shorter on them, everyone is different. Also, in case you don't know, you won't be able to drive for 6 weeks. That is for your driving safety. The legs will be too weak to apply the brakes if you need to suddenly stop.

Let us know when you get to talk to the Dr. Gross. I'm looking forward to hearing how you make out.

[ctb]

Thanks newdog!  I've been away for awhile - I lost my hard drive and have been spending my free time rebuilding it.  I did finally get to talk to Dr. Gross last week and I was so excited I could barely think of anything to ask him except whether my right needed resurfacing too and when could I get on the schedule. He said he thinks my right doesn't need resurfacing right now, so I'll hold off and just plan another trip a few years (knock on wood it lasts that long) down the road.  Now I'm just waiting on a call to tell me when I can have the surgery, but it looks like they are booking end of March, beginning of April.  Wish it was sooner, my hip is getting worse by the day. 

I'm thinking of going in for another shot.  The two I've had haven't lasted very long for me though.  Are there different types of shots or are they all pretty much the same? 

[imgetinold]

Catherine,

I would check with Dr. Gross or Lee about another shot (assuming you mean cortisone).  I asked about it because I was considering getting one, and they said that they don't recommend more than two.  Something about increased chance of bone damage.  I'm no expert, but I would have them weigh in based on their comment to me.

Andy

[curt]

    My shots were short lived and ineffective too.  I abandoned them.  I certainly understand you wanting to get on the surgery calendar sooner.  Once you commit, you don't want to be delayed.  It will come though, and you are in terrific hands.  Just arrived an hour ago from my 6 week post op checkup.  Actually drove 7 hours to get there rather than doing it via the mail.  Wanted to ask him questions and see the xrays with him.  He doesn't talk much, but he loves talking about his resurfacing and the patients (lots of good pride in it).  If I need another hip, and even if I need total knees in about 15 years, I'm going to him as long as he doesn't make us all mad by retiring.  Curt

[ctb]

I'm scheduled for March 21!  So far away, but at least it is set.  Dr. Gross said I didn't need my right one done yet, so I'll wait. 

I just got off the phone with a friend who said his friend's brother is only 42 and scheduled for THR.  He was told it was his only option.  I sent the link for this site as well as to Dr. Gross.  I can't believe these surgeons who don't give their patients all their options.  Errrrrr......