resurfacing: problems after 14 months

[wertrojans]

Hello:
I had the birmingham hip resurfacing 14 months ago. Got the general hip aches and pains while healing. Got better then about 4 months ago started getting pain. Now I can not bare weight on the leg. Had MRI and fluid extracted from the hip. I don't think thats normal to have fluid surrounding the implant. Anyway no infection but was sent to MAYO clinic for testing of metal wear. Still awaiting outcome. Meanwhile, found out I have low TSH, thyroid cancer and recently had my thyroid removed. I am now on Synthroid but can't bare the pain on my hip while sitting, standing, or pretty much doing anything and pain meds don't help. If anyone is having the same experiences would appreciate input. I'm on crutches full time now and will be seeing the surgeon again very soon. Not sure what to make of all this. Is anyone else possibly allergic to the metal used in the birmingham hip? Please advise, would like input, and support! Can't seem to find info. in the internet that might help.

 

[Josephine]

I moved your post into a thread of it's own, wertrojans. Think it will get more response that way.

This sounds to me more like a loose prosthesis. Plus, whilst the cultures of the fluid might initially be clear, it is still possible to have what is known as a "sterile" infection which is caused by the normal bugs in the body or almost a fungal kind of infection.

Sadly - and there's no easy way of saying this - either way this is a situation that needs a revision and soon.

 

[JudyS]

Wertrojans

Sorry to hear of your situation. I had my right hip replaced June 6th. Now dealing with knees and spine.
I hope you can get to your surgeon soon and know where you stand. We are all here for you.
Let us know what you find out
Judy

 

[wertrojans]

Well after visiting my surgeon, I have decided to have a hip revision even though I don't want another surgery. The doctor has suggested a porcelain implant with a plastic cup depending on what he sees while during surgery. The doctor thinks I am rejecting the implant. Still no results on wear metals from the MAYO clinic. Has anyone had any experience with a porcelain implant? Wish me luck. Surgery is scheduled for January 30, 2009.

 

[Josephine]

Otherwise known as ceramic, wertojans. I'll add 'ceramic' on the tags. If you click on it you'll get a list of threads that talk about it.

 

[BigDog Mom]

Hi Wertrojans,
Yes I have two that are a little over 13 weeks old. LOVE THEM! So much more stable and way more ROM than the old original equipment. My ball is ceramic and my cup liner is one of the new cross linked polys, So less metal ions to worry about. I actually got to handle the parts that are in me and it was amazing how light weight they are compared with some of the older materials. There are lots of others on the list with the same combo.

Best wishes for you to have this done and behind you so you can have your life back!

Donna

 

[JudyS]

Wertrojans

I also have a ceramic ball/x-linked poly cup. I love my surgeon, it was his recommendation and like Donna I have great range of motion and no problems at all or no pain at all!!! My right hip was replaced on June 6th.

As I only had one hip done, I can see that my range in the prosthetic hip is much greater than the left original hip.
Good Luck
Judy