Talked to Dr. Gross today....

[Terry_Smith]

   Dr. Gross called me today, and we had a nice chat.  He did say I have some terrible hip joints ( I concur  :D)  and we discussed several things.  He hasn't gotten the DEXA results yet (turns out the place that did them sent them to a Dr. Gross in FRESNO - what is GOING on here???), but feels that I should be able to get the resurfacing done on both hips.  My left hip is a bit more problematic, and he said that he would probably have to use a mixture of bone cement, bone graft, etc to do it.  He also said that there may be a 5% chance that the fixation might not work properly due to the wear, and if when he gets in there he might have to do the MOM if the wear is worse than he expects.  All of this I can accept.  I told him that I wanted a bilateral, and if my density is OK, he doesn't see a problem, other than it will be harder for me to get around.  Once I'm home, I should be OK.  I won't have to go anywhere for a while.

   In the meantime, I still have my appointment with Dr. Ball on Tuesday.  I really want to hear his thoughts before I make my final decision, but all things considered, I think that Dr. Gross will be "THE ONE". 

Terry

[Terry_Smith]

Pat,

   Thanks for the reply...   I haven't ruled out Dr. Ball at all, I just felt good knowing I FINALLY talked to a doctor that is on the side of preserving my bone.  A little euphoria I guess.  I've heard great things about Dr. Ball, so I really want to hear his opinion.  If it's the same as Dr. Gross, then the flight there and back might sway me to Dr. Ball.  I have enough points for the flight for me and someone else to help me if needed, but staying "local" would be great too.  I'm just glad I have the opportunity to weigh 2 choices instead of being stuck with no choices.  Anyway, I don't want to ramble.  I'm off to stretch out on the couch (potato time - plus my hip feels better straight) and start the holiday.  I wish you and your family a Wonderful Thanksgiving!

Terry