May 6, 2019

As a 62-year-old healthy male, I’ve enjoyed a vigorous, athletic lifestyle exercising, Hiking, Cycling, Horseback riding and Skiing. After visiting with two different orthopedic surgeons in the past year a THR was strongly recommended due to “bone on bone” pain in the right hip diagnosed as “severe” OA. This news was rather shocking causing fear, anger and uncertainty, particularly since no other options were presented or explored.

While occasional, sporadic pain for the past three years caused some ROM loss and a moderate decrease in rigorous activity the findings seemed disproportionally aggressive. Unfortunately, the intensity and frequency of pain seemed to be gradually increasing and simply taking an hour drive in the car could cause significant discomfort.

Nonetheless, the potential limitations and other adverse consequences of a THR to an especially active life drove my diligence towards other alternatives and I was extremely fortunate to find this incredible forum filled with exceptionally intelligent, thoughtful and supportive members. I have attempted to read virtually everything available through different websites, published studies, interviews and devoured YouTube and posts on Surface Hippy.

I explored many options (not presented by the Doctors I visited) and concluded based on my own particular circumstances and analysis that Dr. Gross in Columbia, SC was my preferred path for corrective action. I had an excellent phone and in-person consultation with Dr. Gross and his staff. They indicated I was an outstanding candidate for the outpatient, fast recovery protocol. Subsequently I have scheduled the right Hip to be resurfaced in about 4 weeks.

At times, I’ve been consumed by self-doubt and wondered if I am making the right decision. Never having faced major surgery is causing a high degree of anxiety and apprehension, however, as an engineer the data driven, results oriented expertise and compelling experience of Dr. Gross with his skilled staff was undeniably impressive and reassuring.

Yet, the procedure and significant recovery period still seems quite daunting. At times, I wonder about device longevity, the possibility of revision surgery and the overall outcome. On good days with minimal pain, I can easily convince myself to delay the procedure or continue to seek (improbable) alternatives, but when the pain inevitably returns, it underscores the need to move forward.
Fortunately, I have the time to concentrate on recovery, and hope that my expectations for less pain with increased mobility are accurate and can be attained, in due course.

With the wisdom and insights of this website, I am trying to be well prepared by getting into the best shape possible (strength training, cardio and stretching), preparing the house and planning with the support of family. The last part might be the most difficult since I’ve always been the protector and provider, and requiring the support of others is a new and somewhat uncomfortable role that’s difficult to accept (even temporarily).

Moreover, patience is not a strong point of mine and the thought of substantially limiting my activity while healing and recovering is going to be challenging. However, with sage advice from this site, I know what to generally expect and more importantly, the need to have patient perseverance.

I am not sure my post adds any value since most of these issues have been covered more than adequately, however, I wanted to express my deepest gratitude to the many other posters on this site as well as Pat Walter.

Some day, there will hopefully be a less invasive process to repair damaged joints, however, until that day arrives we must avail ourselves to the best existing alternatives and I thank this site for providing the necessary information to make better informed decisions about our health.

June 3, 2020

In the movie “Chariots of Fire” running coach Sam Mussabini tells Harold Abrahams “you can’t put in what God left out”. For those of us who’ve successfully had Hip Resurfacing, we might resolutely disagree. Just over three months ago I had my Right Hip resurfaced and the experience has been nothing short of amazing, restoring an active vigorous life and virtually eliminating years of pain. This site, with its informative, intelligent posts and inspiring stories served as a motivating force and helped facilitate an easier passage by gaining a knowledgeable appreciation of what to expect as well as a realistic understanding of the risks involved.

In this post, I am reserving the details of a rapid recovery for another time, but felt compelled to provide my overall learnings to hopefully help or inform others. With humility, I trust these comments will be useful, because like me, even with an abundance of information, you may still be consumed with anxiety.

1. Do your diligence. Obtain multiple consultations with different orthopedic specialist regarding your condition. Determinations and recommended actions may vary considerably and you owe it to yourself to be well informed. Read everything you can, watch YouTube testimonials and read as many medical and patient reviews as you can tolerate. There’s a vast amount of information, which can be confusing, sometimes contradictory, however, in time, you’ll gain greater knowledge and confidence towards finding the path that’s right for you.

2. You may be uncertain about Hip Resurfacing, however, regarding when to make a decision, don’t doubt me when I say that “You will know when it’s time”. At some point, the pain, loss of motion and diminished quality of life will compel you to act. Everyone’s thresholds are different, however, in the meantime try to trust yourself.

3. Choosing a surgeon is like selecting a life partner, the consequences will, most likely, be with you for the rest of your life. Take your time, you want to feel confident with your surgeons’ approach, experience and skills, as well as the entire support team involved in both the pre and post-surgery experience. Are they accessible, receptive and responsive to your concerns, questions and issues?

4. While you shouldn’t be intimidated by your surgeon, the best has spent years studying, training and honing their craft. Your surgeon will perform their finest with knowledgeable, respectful patients that have confidence in their skills and capabilities. The reasons why there’s a limited number of exceptional Hip Resurfacing surgeons is because the procedure is more technically demanding (compared to a THR), requires multiple proficiencies, involves years of practice and perhaps, is anathema to the main stream. Therefore, to achieve the maximum outcome, without exception, always follow your surgeons’ instructions and guidelines.

5. Remember, as brilliant and concerned as your Doctor maybe for your well-being, they are still running a business. This doesn’t mean your health is secondary, but your provider has bills to pay. You must, in a timely manner, accurately and fully, fill out all paperwork and forms, including insurance information (if applicable). Mistakes occasionally occur, so keep a copy of all your forms and medical records handy to assist office staff, if necessary. Before calling, visiting or writing think through what you wish to communicate to save time and avoid confusion. Usually, the best surgeon offices are the busiest with lead times frequently in excess of three months. Being flexible, courteous and respectful will be greatly appreciated.

6. You must do “your part” towards achieving your goals and being successful. To the best of your ability, now is the time to lose any extra weight, improve your overall fitness, maintain a healthy, balanced diet, staying well hydrated and getting proper rest- before the surgery. There’s been much said/written about what exercises are best, what’s the most effective diet, vitamins and/or supplements, nonetheless, in consultation with your surgeon, do what’s correct for you. If you must prioritize activity, focus on flexibility, aerobic conditioning and strength training (core). A body in motion tends to stay in motion. For most, this surgery provides a second chance to enjoy being active without pain, and requires a continuing lifetime commitment to staying healthy.

7. There are numerous, incredibly helpful, posts in this forum, on how to prepare your home during the convalescence phase. Do get a hip kit, acquire an icing machine and practice at home before your surgery to know what to expect. Try crutches/forearm supports and a cane before your operation so you have an idea what works best for you and possess these items ahead of time instead of wishing you had them. They will make your recovery easier and more restful. Also, a comfortable, electric recliner is very beneficial during recovery.

8. Plan and organize logistics way ahead of your surgery. Have a backup plan in the event of unanticipated changes, flight/itinerary cancelations including even your surgery date are a fact of life. Comfort, convenience and peace of mind prior to, during and after your procedure will substantially enhance the experience. Last minute planning will only compound your stress.

9. I know that a considerable amount of anxiety and doubt permeates this journey, particularly as you manage through many uncertainties. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone and the path you are on is well worn.

10. With the procedure successfully completed, there was great elation that my substantial OA pain was astoundingly absent, however, I didn’t anticipate that the temporary loss of mobility and independence would cause feelings of vulnerability, weakness, and uselessness. These thoughts occasionally generated irritability and sadness. Getting outside, staying active and focusing on the progression helped alleviate these natural emotions after surgery. You may never experience these feelings, but be prepared for some ups and down, it’s a process, not a race.

11. It’s human nature to compare your recovery progress to others. However, beware of miraculous, amazingly fast recuperation stories, while they maybe inspiring it can lead to unrealistic expectations. Although naturally interesting, comparisons won’t help you heal faster, just stay true to yourself and remember Socrates maxim “know thyself”. You may face setbacks, obstacles or recovery issues, however, if you’ve gotten this far, you’re a “Warrior”, you won’t give up, your engaged, focused and will prevail and eventually triumph.

12. One of my biggest challenges was not over doing my activity level during the healing process. The elimination of joint pain and improved range of motion was nothing short of amazing, and my exuberance sometimes inspired activity levels that pushed me just beyond the edge, requiring a few days of dialing back. Fortunately, the rebound was rapid, and each time physical boundaries/limitations stretched out even further. It’s exhilarating knowing you’re getting better, stronger, restored and conditioned to do the things you love to do.

13. Everyone wants to know how long will my prosthesis last? The unsatisfying truth is that no one really can say for sure. There are just too many variables with each individual and the procedure doesn’t come with a warranty. However, equipment, materials and techniques continue to advance and studies suggest that most will enjoy well more than ten years of service and for many the device will most likely outlast its user.

14. In the rare event that your surgery was unsuccessful or you’ve experienced a difficult recovery with complications, in time, with patience and fortitude, most (but not all) issues, with a skilled and experienced surgeon, difficulties can usually be resolved.

15. More important than anything else, having an understanding and supportive partner, will ultimately, make an enormous difference in attaining an enjoyable, robust recovery. Remember to appreciate and express how important your caregiver(s) are to you. If your fortunate enough to have a loving devoted Caregiver, count your blessings and commit to returning the kindness, if ever necessary.

By the way, John Steinbeck probably had a much more inspiring quote: “You can’t make a racehorse out of a pig, but you can make a pig very fast”.

My endearing gratitude and appreciation to everyone on this site, for your considerable, thoughtful contributions.