Hi........I've just received a call from SWLEOC (the unit where I'm having my operation on the 2nd April) to go through a few details with me and she confirmed that I'm having the MITCH PER device which I understand is ceramic.  Does anyone know anything about this particular device?  I haven't found anything yet on Surface Hippy but maybe I'm not looking hard enough.  She also said that I'd very likely have 20 metal staples which will be removed 10-12 days after the operation.  She also told me that I'm going to have a spinal anaesthetic to which I groaned but she did assure me that I will have no awareness whatsoever......any guidance, tips etc would be so appreciated................from a very nervous Jan49 x

Hi Jan

I have not heard of the Mitch Per.  I did a search and found information on Mr. Field's page  http://www.stanthonys.org.uk/Specialised_procedures/hip_resurfacing.html  Look towards the bottom.

Also here  http://www.hipandkneesurgeon.co.uk/Mini-Hip-replacement.asp

This seems like a device similar to the BMHR mid head design.  It is not a true resurfacing, yet not a THR.  Many surgeons don't like to do resurfacing for older women or for smaller people.  They are afraid of femur neck problems.  The mid head devices provide more strength for the femur neck while not requiring as much bone removal as a THR.

I think this type of design will become more and more popular - but that is my opinion since I am not a doctor or medically trained.

If you are an older woman or the surgeon thinks resurfacing could be a problem, this is a good compromise since it is not a full THR.

I could not find out what the device is made of.  Why don't you ask for more information about the device.  Try to get some written info or a webpage about it.  I would also like to learn more too.  I will write to the surgeon and Stryker to try and find out more for my website.

Many people get staples and most say there is not a problem having them removed.  I only received stitches that melted away.  Each surgeon has a different approach.  I don't know if you could request just stiches.  You can always ask.

Normally with a spinal, you will also be put to sleep or be groggy.  Make sure you ask to be put out so you don't know what is happening.  You can always request what you want - it is worth a try.  Here in the US, they usually will listen to you.

You just need to tell them your concerns.

Please keep in touch.  There are a lot of folks here to give you great support.

Good Luck.

Pat

Hi Pat - thanks so much for such a prompt reply!  You are so knowledgeable - I will have a look at the website that you mentioned and see what else I can find out about this device.  I am 59 years old so maybe that's why they've opted for this one.  Thanks again Jan49 8)

hi jan, i had my hip op here in the uk, metal staples and a spinal ,both were no problem ,they give you a knock out  injection first then the spinal is applied so you won/t feel anything ,
the staples give a really neat and tidy way of holding the incision together until it heals in 10 days time , they are snipped with pliers to remove them, almost with no pain whatsoever, the scar is then a lot tidyer than what i would be with stitches as well,
you will be fine, take care , pete

Hi Pete...thanks for your reply and advice - it is reassuring to find out as much as you can pre-op but..............I've just had a look through your messages and you've been through it haven't you :'(  I was also told that if the HR is not suitable they will do a complete THR - guess it's the risk you take  ??? 

Thanks again Jan49

Pete - just one other thing who was your surgeon and where did you have the operation?

hi jan , i have sent you a pm , pete

Welcome Jan and good luck with your surgery.  I just had spinals for each hip resurfacing last week and the spinals were no issue at all.  They give me some sort of joy juice in pre-op and the only thing I remembered after being wheeled in to the operating room was them asking me to lean forward to gain access to my back.  The next thing I knew was that I am in the recovery room.

Thanks for your advice.....only 24 hours now and I'll be ready to go into the operating theatre  ::) :-\ ;)  Will keep you posted...Jan49

Alan, good to hear you had a good experience with Dr. Gross.  He and his team have been very kind working with me in preparation of my April 15 resurfacing.  Good to know you get the "joy juice" then the spinal, and before you know it, you are waking up.  I look forward to getting my life back.
JHD
Durham, NC