I am scheduled for a hip resurfacing in mid-October to be performed
by a Dr. Robert Gilbert who was favorably referred to me by a former
business colleague. Is there any feedback anyone else can provide
on their experiences in having hip resurfacings or hip replacmenets
with Dr. Gilbert?
Thanks,
youngd
Do you know how many hip resurfacings Dr. Gilbert has done?
You should ask his office for other patient references. Then give them a call as ask about their surgery experience and post op experience. The doctor should be quite willing to give you other patient references.
Here is a list of other questions to ask your surgeon
http://www.surfacehippy.info/questionsfordoctor.php (http://www.surfacehippy.info/questionsfordoctor.php) A doctor should be willing to answer all of your questions. That is the only way you can evaluate him.
Hip rsurfacing is a more complex and difficult surgery than a THR. THere are studies showing the learning curve to be 50-100 hip resurfacing surgeries. Experience can only be learned, not taught. Many of us older hippies wanted really experienced doctors. Some of the newer people are willing to use doctors with less experience. If you have a difficult case, it would be wise to use an experienced doctor. Some of the newer doctors will opt for a THR if the surgery looks too complicated. Normally, most of the experienced doctors will give you a BHR when they say they will.
When you find out more about Dr. Gilbert, please let me know and I will add it to my list of doctors. If you should use him for your surgery, it would be great for you to write a short story about your experience for others to read. That is why I have so many personal hip stories posted. That is a good way to learn about the doctor, his/her post op protocol and bedside manner.
Pat in Ohio
3/15/06 LBHR De Smet