Jim’s Hip Resurfacing Story. Male, 64, healthy & athletic, low BMI (22.2), normal bone density

I had my left hip resurfaced on September 6, 2017 by Dr. Gross in Columbia, SC. So far, easy. I flew in from southern CA. Today is post-op day-4 and so far I’ve had no issues. All went according to plan: minimal discomfort (2-3 on scale of 10), some expected swelling, and two brief episodes of nausea. Other than that, not much to report. I am still on narcotics but only 1/2 ration. I plan to be completely off narcotics day 5.

As expected, I awoke from surgery and ~3 hours later was walking, slowly, with crutches. The anesthesiologist did an outstanding job. From the time I arrived at the hospital I was gradually sedated. By surgery time, two hours later, I had fallen asleep. Never was aware they had moved me into the surgery room, given me a spinal anesthetic, and inserted a catheter. Perfect. Most discomfort was trying to urinate post surgery after the catheter was removed. It stung. But, doable. Ate a really good club sandwich that I had ordered before surgery. I was released from the hospital ~ 7 PM.

My son drove us back to the hotel (Marriot Residence Inn). Great facility. Super friendly staff. We ate ice cream in the lobby restaurant. Yummy. Nurse arrived later that evening. Checked my vitals and reviewed my drug schedule. All was well. I then went to sleep. Woke up a few times during the night, usually to take my drugs. Took it slow getting in/out of bed and going to the bathroom.

Next morning I did my exercises. Dr. Gross came by about 8 AM. All was well. I then crutched down stairs for breakfast. Uneventful day. Got plenty of sleep. That evening walked (crutched) ~200’ feet to the restaurant (Cracker Barrel) next door. I do not recommend their food.

Dr. Gross’s pain management program is excellent. The narcotics work. I took the recommended dosages and only felt nauseas, briefly, twice. Took the nauseas pills and within minutes felt fine.

The return trip home was uneventful. I was tired but expected that. Had a two hour layover in Dallas. I arranged for a whealchair to meet us and take me to my connecting flight. I was fine going up/down the ramp on crutches. I did splurge and purchase 1st class tickets for the return flight home. That was worth the extra price. So nice having the extra room and service.

Supposedly day three was to be the worst. Um… I didn’t notice much difference. I got up. Did my exercises, including walking ~200 ft., ate breakfast, then relaxed the rest of the day.

I’m now post op day-4. Writing this as I sit on my recliner. So far, so good. Some discomfort where the incision is, but, again, minimal. During the night I even sleep on both sides and on my back. Putting a pillow between my legs helps.

Dr. Gross and his staff are excellent. They know what they are doing and their confidence and friendly demeanor is reassuring. If hip pain is effecting your lifestyle, do the surgery.

Pre & Post Op Tips.
1. Prepare physically – focus on core, single leg exercises, and arm/scapula strengthening.
2. Prepare mentally – read success stories. Research the facts. Let reason, not emotions, be your guide.
3. Post op – go slow.
4. Take the recommended dosage of narcotics.
5. Eat healthy (cut out the sugar).
6. Do the recommended exercises.
7. Get plenty of sleep.

I want to thank Pat, the organizer of this website, and all those patients who have contributed their experience with this surgery.