Total hip replacement surgery next week – hold me!

a I have had my fair share of surgeries over the years. Let’s see, I’ve had both hands operated on (carpal tunnel), and both shoulders, I had my gallbladder removed and most recently I had a major neck surgery. That was a rough one and the recuperation was brutal. I didn’t dream I would need another major surgery anytime soon, but lo and behold, I’m having total hip replacement surgery next week.

About a year ago, my right hip started bothering me. It has gotten progressively worse since then, with pain all the way from the groin, over the side of the hip, and to the flank. When I walk more than about 20 yards, I feel this horrible aching in my hip, groin, etc.

I went to the orthopedist and she sent me out for an incredibly painful MRI Arthrogram. I had never heard of this before, but saw that it had contrast, so I didn’t think it was a big deal, that they would just inject contrast in my arm. I was wrong. Long story short (linked above), I wasn’t able to complete this type of MRI. I was sent to an orthopedist and after an X-ray and another MRI (this time without contrast), it was determined that I have major Osteoarthritis in my right hip, as well as quite a few tears. I was given the option of a cortisone shot (I swore I would NEVER have a cortisone shot again), or total hip replacement surgery. After experiencing the horrible side effects of cortisone shots a few years ago, I opted for the latter, as ultimately my hip isn’t going to get better on its own. Most hip replacement patients are a bit older than I am, so at first I wondered if I should really do this. I read about it a little more than I should have, and freaked myself out a bit. Ultimately, I decided to go with total hip replacement surgery, as I have a lot of life left and I want to be able to spend my time doing things I enjoy (gardening!), WITHOUT being in pain and flinching with every move!

The doctor who will be doing my surgery is specialized in the direct anterior approach hip replacement surgery (where they cut more in the front of the hip area). Supposedly healing is faster with the anterior approach. This particular orthopedic surgeon is the only doctor in Central Oregon that does this, and she comes highly recommended by other hip replacement patients.

I feel like I am in good hands, but as with any surgery, there are always risks. In this case the biggest concerns are infection and dislocating the hip.

There are a few restrictions right after surgery, and they include no jogging or horseback riding. NOT a problem at all! Horses and I don’t really get along, so that works out well. And jogging? Yeah that’s not going to happen either. I have too many issues (bad knees, ankles, etc.), to be jogging.

I will be using a walker for 2 or 3 weeks, and the surgeon said that due to my age, I most likely won’t need a cane. I certainly hope not. I just want to be able to feel “normal” quickly! I am not certain what to expect after hip replacement surgery, but I hope it will be smooth sailing and quick!

Yesterday I went to the pre-op appointment for my THR, where I got my final instructions for surgery day and a few days leading up to it. I also talked to the doctor about my left knee, which has been really painful lately. They wanted to try a cortisone shot, but I told the doctor that after what happened to me the last time I had a cortisone shot, that I wasn’t interested. They did an MRI and it showed that I have a torn meniscus, a Baker’s Cyst and some other issues. I really hope my knee will be kind during my hip replacement surgery recuperation!

Friday, June 14th is the big day – please wish me luck! I will update as I can on Facebook.

Have you had total hip replacement surgery? I would love to know how it went for you. Was recovery rough? How long were you in the hospital? When were you able to walk without a walker, cane or crutch? Please feel free to comment below.