2/29/2014 Right Hip BHR Dr F Boettner.
HSS, Hospital for Special Surgery, Manhattan, NY
I could have had a THR locally in NC for little out of pocket. It took me months to socialize my questions, sift through all the pro, cons, information and controversy.
SurfaceHippy is a great resource but there were many other inputs and sources to contemplate.
After more than 10 months I came back to one of the first courses of action and decided on a friend's personal experience and choose the the same hospital and surgeon; resurfacing, HSS, and Dr F Boettner.
I've had many respond just as I had; why go to the added time, resources, and inconvenience and just do this locally?! HSS, USN&WR's #1 Orthopedic Hospital. Since I could afford the additional 3-5 thousand dollars how could I not afford myself, the best.
It's only been 4 weeks (February 28th 2014) since my resurfacing. And while too soon to know the long term outcomes, the service and care and professionalism of everyone I encountered at HSS was top notch. From the floor sweeper, the food pusher, care assistants, administrative and testing staff everyone is proud of their work and that they work at HSS, #1.
I needed two crutches for about 18 days. And didn't begin reducing pain meds until about this same time.
NARCOTICs Pain Meds are wonderful! HSS was great in educating, conditioning me to monitor pain and stay ahead. While in the hospital this is happening every 3-6 hours. Also in the hospital I was given stool softener, laxatives. KEY!? CONSTIPATION!!! was by far my single most problem recovering at home!
Had a 3/24 followup that went well and one more 4/28 then should be good for a year.
Range of motion is the challenge. Finding the right physical therapist is key. Had good physical therapy experiences for the past 18 months. Tried someone else last week and won't be going back there.
Resurfacings are relatively rare. Nearly all (guessing more than 90%) get THRs. Few PT's have the experience and need to find one that's willing to listen and learn and adapt.
My friend, after I had decided said, I'd be happy with my choice. And I am, Happy!