hip replacement

D.W. · 03-14-2009, 12:45 PM

My orthopedic specialist tells me I need a hip replacement. The hip has no cartiledge because of its being destroyed by radiation. The problem is the blood supply to the hip is dead (necrosis). So he doesn't know if the hip replacement would work. He said that if it won't work that I would be crippled for the rest of my life. (nice choice, huh?). He said I could go on like I am, but it does hurt quite a bit. He says it will only get worse as the hip deteriorates.

My husband works with a lady who had the same diagnosis. Her hip replacement worked; even with the necrosis.

Has anyone dealt with this issue? I'd be grateful to hear from you.

ElaineM · 03-14-2009, 05:47 PM

I was in a bad accident that destroyed my right hip in 2004. The blood supply was also completely cut off.
I had an emergency total hip replacement with a couple pints of blood. Xrays and other tests after the hip replacement have shown the new hip in the correct position in my body.
Good luck with your decision. I know you will make the decision that is right for you. However, you might want to get a second opinion. Different orthopedic surgeons have different views and skills when it comes to replacing parts of the body.

Mary Anne in TX · 03-14-2009, 05:55 PM

I don't have any information, but surely did want to wish you the very best of luck with whatever you decide. ma

Lani · 03-15-2009, 12:51 AM

As I understand it, it is never for the orthopaedic surgeon to tell YOU when you need a total hip, but for you to tell him or her as to its timing, even if the cartilage is worn down and the bone is without blood supply the hip should only be replaced when you can't function/ stand it any more, as hip replacements are not guaranteed to last one's entire life and may loosen and need to be replaced again. Total hip replacements wear out faster in younger people because they tend to be more active and stress them more.

Now if he/she is talking about hip resurfacing, that is a different story, but as I understand it that would not be done in cases where the bone has lost its blood supply. So I suppose the operation that has been recommended is total hip replacement.

The correct surgeon, the correct timing of the operation and the correct type of operation and prosthesis are truly important it would seem-- so a second opinion from someone who not only does these but teaches others to do so would seem prudent.

My two cents worth.

PS I looked up the faculty at University of Indiana Orthopaedic Surgery department and found this: http://www.orthopaedics.iu.edu/faculty.htm

Laurel · 03-15-2009, 07:47 AM

I'm thinkin' SECOND OPINION.

D.W. · 03-15-2009, 02:16 PM

Lani,

You are right. The doctor has told me that I don't have to have this surgery. I can just go on. In fact, he said that if it was him; that he'd not have the surgery. I am on a anti-inflammatory drug and it does help with the discomfort.

I am waiting on a second opinion. The doctor said he'd call on Friday....still waiting! Oh well, they are people too.

Thank you for your input.

Believe51 · 03-23-2009, 10:42 AM

Thinking about you as you investigate and decide about what is best for you. Sending you a hug and positive healing prayers. Keep us posted on how you are feeling and what you decide.>>Believe51

fitztwins · 03-23-2009, 12:53 PM

I had a total hip replacement done in December. I had pain when I put weight on my hip. I was afraid of it breaking. My femoral head was dead too. Between the cancer and radiation, it did my hip in.

The surgeon was nervous about the state of my pelvis too. I actually had 2 surgeons. When they got in there, the bone was good and the pathology came back clean. (thnks to rads/taxoterrible)

I had the surgery and it was a success. 3 months later I don't walk with a limp, I have no pain.
I didn't want to risk being on crutches or a wheel chair. If you are in pain, it makes a big difference.

By the way, I am 44.

D.W. · 03-23-2009, 07:37 PM

Janis,

I am 44 too!

and

Believe51,

Thank you for the prayers and hug.

D.W.

Jackie07 · 03-23-2009, 08:48 PM

My Father-in-law has had two hip surgeries on the same side. He exercised too much after the first one and cracked it after a couple of years. So he had another total replacement surgery. He still does not like to use any walking aide. But he's been doing fine. He was fitted with a custom-made shoe and walks with a little limp.

Shobha · 03-24-2009, 10:01 AM

Praying for you, D.W. that you find the right answers.