I just started using a great new rheumatologist locally. He has helped in many ways. When they did a very extensive blood test, I also asked if they could order a metal ion blood test since I have a BHR.  They said yes.

My results came thru at very low numbers.

Chromium Level - .06 mcg/L
Cobalt - 1.3 mcg/L

All OK after 13 years. They did, however, want me to have a local orthopedic surgeon look at the results. They did not want to be responsible since they were not orthopedics. Doctors are always interesting and trying to cover themselves. Being a small town, they set up an appointment with the same surgeon I went to about a hip replacement 13 years ago. He of course suggested an old fashioned small ball THR.


At my appointment today, the nurse said they wanted to take x-rays.  Great, now I have a set to send to Dr. De Smet in Belgium. All looked good to my eyes. The doctor came in and we talked a bit about hip resurfacing. He reminded me about all the things that could go wrong.  I expected that. Then while he was looking at my x-rays he said everything looked very good. He asked me when I had it done and I said 2006, 13 years ago. He said he remembered me. I said that you told me not to do it, but of course I did anyways.

Then a very surprising response  from the doctor - "I guess I was wrong!"  Can't believe he was so nice and admitted that Hip Resurfacing could actually be a good solution for some people. I know he would not ever do one or recommend it to another person, but maybe at least I educated him a little more.  I told him about the new ceramic on ceramic devices being tested. 


He told me that he had done some metal on metal THRs and was happy with the device he chose since he has not had any problems.

What a lovely story! Thanks for posting this, Pat, it's good to find that metal ion levels are so low at such a long time from surgery, especially in a female, and nice to see a surgeon who can accept your evidence so graciously.
And a big well done to Dr De Smet - let's all hope his ceramic hips work as well as this..

Pete

Great news Pat! Especailly on the metal levels.

I also have come back full circle to my local OS for my right hip.
He says I can see a hip resurfacing specialist of my choice when necessary which could be soon as it has progressed to severe osteoarthritis.
Before in 2008 for my left hip, I was on my own to consider a hip resurfacing option as he did not do the procedure.
I have seen him in the interim for right shoulder arthritis and have a good rapport.

Much obliged for the resources provided by this website.