THR vs BHR recovery thoughts

[PaulC UK]

Male Aged 52 just received THR 6 days in. exeter hip implanted by NHS in UK right side. Left is 6 yr old BHR implanted by same surgeon. So now in excellent position to comment on differences between THR vs BHR as new bilateral. First; UK NHS recently instructed by national institute of clinical excellence (NICE) to no longer supply any MOM hips. My new hip metal on ceramic old technology, so far recovery so much easier than BHR, hopefully will continue, 6 days no crutches at home, one crutch on walks, minimal pain. With BHR was in much more pain and greater swelling, but still mobile.
Cause of hip failure is DDH (developmental dysplasia of hips) diagnosed 04, so probably did well to last that long, especially after 20 +Years in military.
Bad news is BHR maybe looking suspect, shady area on x rays under femoral head, but so far Ions normal and scan OK, but need to be watchful.
Will see how recovery of THR goes vs BHR (although memory will be factor)

[oldsoccerplayer]

I guess you could call that a "side by side" comparison.

[PaulC UK]

ok update and last thoughts. Just started riding my motorbike yesterday at post Op 10 weeks, pain free for the first time in 7 years. A strange experience.

My recovery has been very smooth and I know how lucky this is. I would guess it was twice as quick as HR, with better ROM than my Birminham Hip already, but for some reason I never got back full ROM with my BHR .

Thus from my experience, although if available I would have opted for another BHR, do not be dis-heartened if a full THR is the only option for you, already my THR is out performing my BHR! But as ever everybody is different, as is every hip, even the ones in the same body! Good luck to all and Happy new year.   

[Dannywayoflife]

The bhr is still available on the NHS though.

[PaulC UK]

True Danny, but depends where you are, no NHS surgeons in my area will now contemplate any HR, due issues raised by hysteria in press, but also some pooor statistics.

[Dannywayoflife]

The poor stats only relate to poor surgeons and poor devices though. It's very very sad. The bhr in the hands of a top surgeon in the right candidate is the best option.

[PaulC UK]

Danny,
Again true, however now living through possible BHR failure myself after 6 years, as many others, Mcminn trained surgeon, original BHR device. Perhaps re surfacing isn't for all. When mine was implanted I was 46 fit and well apart from hips, ideal candidate supposedly, lets hope it's temporary glitch and my BHR lasts another 6-12 years, sure hope so.