Trying2StayHip
new member
Hi Everyone!
My name is Bryan and I am scheduled for a THR on 12/08/09 with Dr. Muschler at the Cleveland Clinic.
Nine years ago I was diagnosed with AVN in my left hip. Six years ago I opted for a vascularized fibular graft with hope that it would save me from a hip replacement for at least ten years. The graft was a success, however, arthritis has overtaken the hip and I have suffered horrible pain in my left hip, lower left back, and left knee - causing me to limp pretty badly for the past two years. I was also diagnosed with AVN around the knee of the same leg a year ago, but according to my surgeon - there is no need to operate as it is above and below the knee - not actually 'in' the knee.
Now I am trying to decide which prosthesis to go with. My surgeon has recommended ceramic on ceramic. I know he consults and researches for the company...I think its Stryker. A previous surgeon in Pittsburgh recommended a metal ball and plastic cup, which he researches and consults for. So confusing...the decision-making process is actually unpleasant. Obviously I am afraid of choosing the wrong one. So many people I have met have suffered dislocations - its rather disheartening. But reading some of the posts here - is very uplifting.
My wife had our first child, a boy, this past April. He is my pride and joy - but caring for him during the day and working at night has made my body feel even more of a wreck, crippled really. Naturally, I hope the THR will give me back some of my life and the ability to play on the floor and carry my boy at length without pain. Just as much, I hope my THR gives my wife some of her life back as well!
I was very physically fit and active prior to my AVN, but all the pain has made it hard to maintain weight, etc., which obviously makes the pain worse. Such a cruel and vicious cycle.
I am thankful to have found this site and look forward to perusing more threads, as well as making your acquaintances. See you around!
Best,
Bryan Rapp
My name is Bryan and I am scheduled for a THR on 12/08/09 with Dr. Muschler at the Cleveland Clinic.
Nine years ago I was diagnosed with AVN in my left hip. Six years ago I opted for a vascularized fibular graft with hope that it would save me from a hip replacement for at least ten years. The graft was a success, however, arthritis has overtaken the hip and I have suffered horrible pain in my left hip, lower left back, and left knee - causing me to limp pretty badly for the past two years. I was also diagnosed with AVN around the knee of the same leg a year ago, but according to my surgeon - there is no need to operate as it is above and below the knee - not actually 'in' the knee.
Now I am trying to decide which prosthesis to go with. My surgeon has recommended ceramic on ceramic. I know he consults and researches for the company...I think its Stryker. A previous surgeon in Pittsburgh recommended a metal ball and plastic cup, which he researches and consults for. So confusing...the decision-making process is actually unpleasant. Obviously I am afraid of choosing the wrong one. So many people I have met have suffered dislocations - its rather disheartening. But reading some of the posts here - is very uplifting.
My wife had our first child, a boy, this past April. He is my pride and joy - but caring for him during the day and working at night has made my body feel even more of a wreck, crippled really. Naturally, I hope the THR will give me back some of my life and the ability to play on the floor and carry my boy at length without pain. Just as much, I hope my THR gives my wife some of her life back as well!
I was very physically fit and active prior to my AVN, but all the pain has made it hard to maintain weight, etc., which obviously makes the pain worse. Such a cruel and vicious cycle.
I am thankful to have found this site and look forward to perusing more threads, as well as making your acquaintances. See you around!
Best,
Bryan Rapp