Harry’s Hip Resurfacing with Dr. Schemitsch 2016
I was 54 years old when I had my left hip resurfaced by Dr. Schemitsch on October 17th, 2016. I had a labral tear in my left hip for over 30 years as a result of an undiagnosed football injury. The pain was becoming increasingly worse, and became severe about 5 years prior to my surgery. Close to a half dozen doctors had missed diagnosed my problem ( after Dr. Schemitsch explained and showed me the problem, I have no idea how these other doctors could not figure it out). Prior to finding Dr. Schemitch I was an absolute mess. I was probably sleeping an hour a night at best due to the pain ( I was taking the most powerful narcotics(painkillers) my family doctor could prescribe , they offered no relief). By the time I came to this site I was desperate. By now I was on crutches and still no hope in site. The best decision I ever made, out of desperation, was to find a surgeon myself , with the help of the internet of course. I learned that the type of surgery I needed was not a standard hip replacement, but resurfacing. My profile is heavy set , active an young ( under 65 for a hip replacement is considered young ).
By the time I had my first appointment with Dr. Schemitsch I could no longer work, and was on crutches. The wait for surgery was just over a year. Not fun, but it was worth it. He is an amazing surgeon as suggested by many on this site. He is very thorough. One needs to closely follow all of his recommendations post op. I have had two follow up appointments with him. He very patiently explained how my healing was progressing, as well as offered recommendations in regard to do’s and don’ts for my new hip. Bedside manner is of absolutely no consequence to me, that being said, I found him to be a great person as well as a great surgeon. His approach with me was as a very caring person who wanted to genuinely help me out every step of the way, and by the way this was not my experience with previous surgeons that I have dealt with. …..and help me he did. My life was such a mess for so long I really appreciate what he has done for me. To walk across a room without crutches and screaming pain had grow absolutely foreign to me. My hip now feels just like my good one. Thank you Doctor Schemitsch for giving me my life back!! I really need to put in a few good word for London’s University hospital as well. The staff there is friendly and helpful, not my experience with most hospitals that I have experienced. If you are reading posts on this site I know how you must feel. The short term road ahead of you is not as intimidating as you think. The chances of getting your life back on the long term is excellent.