So I saw the famed Dr. Joel Matta today. I spent quite a bit of time in his office while he and his fellow measured, drew, discussed, measured some more took new X-rays etc. He said he hates to recommend it, but he agrees I need a revision. He said my original surgeon is well respected and the result is unfortunate. I said I know things don't always go the way they are supposed to, but said I don't have faith in the original doctor fixing it since he does not even think or won't admit that anything is wrong. The three other Os's I have seen all agree there is a problem. My acetabulum component is highly anteverted and when I move my leg there is impingement (Dr Matta's assessment) . There is also subluxation (?) when I turn out my hip which they noticed on the X-ray and CT scan.
Dr. Matta said he said he does not really like to do revisions and does not do that many...about 2 a month...although he just did two last week. When I asked him if he could refer me to anyone else he said he did not think any one else could do as good a job as he could. lol He felt I should stay with the anterior approach since with a revision I have a higher chance of dislocation. But it seems my hip is already partially coming out of socket (I believe that is what subluxation is?) despite having had an anterior replacement. They moved my leg around and felt the odd movement I feel in my hip. It kind of wiggles and jerks with certain movements. So they basically said the same thing that the other OS who originally recommended revision said...although he uses the PATH method. Dr. Matta ended are appointment with "Well you definitely have a problem." I had to laugh. He was very nice and thorough. He unfortunately does not take my insurance...I paid cash for the consult. Oh and my leg is about a centimeter shorter than the left. I already knew it was shorter as I can feel it, but just not how much shorter.
I now feel more confused as to which doctor to choose, and which method, but less confused about whether I need a revision although the thought of having one frightens me. Dr. Matta also felt that the polyethylene component will wear faster and cause inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissue which he thought might be some of the pain I am feeling now. I often have a burning sensation inside my hip and it radiates down my leg. I told him I wish I could see what is going on inside there.
At any rate, I am feeling sad, scared, and disappointed. One thing all three OS's have said is that a revision is never as good as a primary...although my primary is not good so maybe that is a moot point...and that there are increased risks etc.. Dr. Matta mentioned a few scarier complications than the other OS...bone breakage etc. when they cut out the cup.
United States
