Hip arthritis - use of anti-inflammatory drugs and other alternatvies to HR

[YoungD]

Hi - I've had worsening hip arthritis for about 5 years and am now
scheduled for a hip resurfacing in mid-October.  I still am doing
a fair amount of research on the topic and wanted to see if anyone
has information on any research done on the long term negative
health effects of taking anti-inflammatory drugs for a long 10 year plus
time frame.  I currently take 10-20 mgs of Voltaren which has been
reasonably helpful in controlling my hip pain with no side effects.  I also
would be interested in info on any other alternatives to hip resurfacing/replacement
that are out there.  I'm still planning on the hip resurfacing but want to make
sure I've thoroughly evaluated all the alternatives to such a major surgery.

Thanks,

YoungD

[Pat Walter]

Hi

Most of the experienced doctors will tell you that taking NSAIDS long term will begin to breakdown the hip joint.  Dr. De Smet who has done over 2400 hip resurfacings, suggests the use of codene type pain relievers rather than NSAIDS - which include Celebrex, Advil, Asprin, etc.   The pain relievers like Vicodin, percoset, Darvocet are what they normally recommend.

Here is a quote from Dr De Smets website

38. What treatment is possible before a total hip replacement?
Symptomatic treatment exists of classic painkillers (e.g. paracetamol), NSAID (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), or even Glucosamine and Chondroitenesulfates and diminishing physical activities (be aware of diminishing bone quality when used for a long time). Treatment with hyaluronic acid is rarely used at our department.

The info is from his FAQ page  http://www.hip-clinic.com/en/html/answers.shtml

There are no other alternatives to hip resurfacing other than a THR which is not bone conserving and sometimes will limit your activities depending on the type you receive. Any person under 70 that is active should try to have a hip resurfacing.

Besides NSAIDS breaking down the joints, they are  hard on the intestine  Just do a google search  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/01/050111123706.htm  There is a lot of info about NSAIDS.

Pat in Ohio
3/15/06 LBHR De Smet