Question - Hip Arthoscopy

[mmooney42]

Question, I had a hip scope 19 days ago.  I am under non-weight baring protocols until the 3 week mark, so I have not walked on the operated side.  I am noticing that from the knee down, that my leg is colder to the touch than the non-operated side.  My surgeon's PA is telling me it's nothing to worry about and it part of the healing process.  There is no swelling or pain, although I do have some numbness.  I also had it checked by my primary care physician, to have another opinion.  He checked the pulses in various parts of the leg and they are all strong, same as the non-operated side.  So they don't have any concerns about clots.  He agreed that even though it's colder to the touch, it's nothing to worry about.  They both said that because I am not yet walking on it, it's not acting as a true 'pump' and that can be why it's colder and have the numbness feeling.  My surgeons office is not concerned about any nerves being compromised as the nerves around the area of the hip scope are not ones that would affect the lower leg.

I had a hip resurfacing on the other side 2+ years ago, and I did not have this issue in that leg, and that surgery is much more invasive.  However, with a resurfacing, you are walking on it right away.  So I am wondering if this will go away once I start walking on the operated leg.

Does anyone have any experience or feedback with what I am experiencing?

Thanks,
Matt

PS, the resurfaced hip is fantastic and really have no limitations or issues with that side.  Unfortunately, I tore the labrum in the other hip.

[LMS]

Hi Matt,
I had a scope done on my left hip, Nov. 2007.  A debridement & micro perf.


And yes, your leg feeling colder is normal.  My leg felt colder for quite a while (months) until I stopped noticing eventually.  It is a much more difficult procedure to recover from, it takes up to a year +.  Not the same healing process when compared to a HR or THR.


If you have any concerns or questions, I'd more than happy to share my experience with you.  And remember: it'll take time, don't rush things, it's more than likely normal.  ;D