I had bi-lateral hip surgeries as a kid (age 9 & 10) for a slipped capital femoral epiphysis. They left the pins in place for 50 years! 3 years ago I had total knee replacement and it was life changing, I actually was able to live pain free for almost 1 year...wow was it great! Sadly, the left side which supported my bad knee has finally yelled UNCLE. The pain has gotten so severe it wakes me up at night. Walking long distances is now impossible. My golf game and hiking has come to an end. Getting down on the floor with my grandkids is close to impossible. Arthritis has set in and the pain has gotten the best of me. I will be having LTHR on October 7th.The doc has informed me that the pins need to be removed when they do the THR, which makes the recovery a bit longer...no PT for 6 weeks dues to risk of fractures. Has anyone ever had pins needing removal during THR? Any tips on successful recovery? I am so ready to do this...just nervous anticipation.