Birmingham Hip Resurfacing - Patient Journal
In addition to Rhonda's
thoughts following surgery, make sure to read her 9-month-followup at
the bottom of the page.
All of the things did seem to help and no, I would not
recommend doing anything without talking to Dr. Rogerson's team first. 9 Months Following Surgery"You Need a Hip Replacement"When my Primary Care Provider told me I was going to need a hip replacement before I was 50, I couldn't believe it. Sure, I was having painful catches in my right groin and bone spurs on both feet, but I didn't think it was that serious. It didn't take long to realize I was giving up things I loved such as golfing, roller blading, water skiing and gardening because I was in too much pain. In January of 2006, I learned that resurfacing was predicted to be FDA approved in the USA sometime during the summer. I needed to hold out till then and search for the best surgeon. Finding the Best Surgeon I researched and found that Dr. Rogerson, in Madison Wisconsin, was one of the first surgeons in the country to perform Birmingham hip resurfacing. Dr. Rogerson's website is a wealth of knowledge along with a patient guide discussing the diseases process, the implant, procedure, rehab and other facts. Dr. Rogerson is also a well renowned surgeon with an incredible success rate. I had sent my x-rays to Dr. Rogerson where he confirmed that hip resurfacing would be an excellent choice for me. One problem: Dr. Rogerson was not on my health insurance provider list. Fight for What is Right I put up a four month battle with my health insurance company to cover the procedure. I went through all the hoops each time being denied and told I could have a total hip replacement. I was determined that Dr. Rogerson was the best and I needed resurfacing to preserve my bone and enjoy the things I love; not a total hip replacement. As time went by, I had made an appointment with Dr. Rogerson, which I was going to pay out of pocket, just to get on his three month wait list. My plan was to change my insurance provider during open enrollment and I would be set. Finally, four denial letters later; I won the battle!!! Dr. Rogerson, here I come! The Total Package I felt this peace and assurance that I had made the right decision when I walked into Dr. Rogerson's office. The office staff was warm and friendly; making me feel comfortable. Meeting Dr. Rogerson and Joanna- PA, was a breath of fresh air. They explained my x-rays, the procedure, rehab and answered my questions. Information was giving in great detail explaining each step from before surgery, the day of surgery and the rehab. I met with the physical therapist Desiree at the "Hip Hab Rehab Center" touring the facility where I would stay for five days and going over exercises providing me a better understanding of what to expect. Dr. Rogerson's total package has left nothing unturned and is very personable, showing that his team really cares, their expertise and your best interest is at heart. Surgery Day I felt at peace the day of surgery and trusted my heavenly Father that everything was going to be all right. I willingly wrote Dr. Rogerson's initials on my right leg and wiggled into the ted stockings. My anesthesiologist was sweet and Dr. Rogerson's contagious smile and calming words reassured me I had made the right decision. The next thing I knew I was being wheeled into my room; the surgery was over. The surgery went well and I really didn’t have much pain after. Sure, moving was a little challenging but my stomach was more of a problem with the medications. It was weird to be able to straighten my leg for the first time in 3 years. The pain in my feet went away too. Hip Hab Rehab My suite at the rehab center was gorgeous and very healing. Rehab was a humbling experience when I was passed up in the hallway by an 87 year old resident! I enjoyed the PT by land and water therapy was amazing. Dr. Rogerson and Renee- PA, stopped by to see me in my room reassuring me I was doing ok and that my leg was looking good. Walking actually felt good. Moving my leg with exercises improved daily. It is funny how your brain tells you to do something, but your body just can’t make it happen. December 21, a week after the procedure, I went home. My hip resurfacing was the best Christmas present ever. Recovery at Home Once I was home I continued to do my exercises. I've always enjoyed walking and with a mild winter, I took to the dry pavement. Soon, I walked with one crutch. It seemed like I could see changes everyday until around week four. Sometimes I felt like maybe I wasn't doing as good as I should be. It was hard to not want to compare myself to others. I stopped looking for day to day improvements and focused on each week; then I could see improvements. I also reminded myself that everyone is different and some of the things I couldn't do, I had not been able to do for the past five years, so why would I think I could do them in a few weeks? What Would I Have Done Differently? Because of my insurance plan, I could not continue with my rehab at the hip hab center. I did go to another physical therapy facility, but they had never seen another patient with hip resurfacing. That was a little scary for me as I wanted to make sure they were not going to have me do something that would harm my procedure as well as make sure I was progressing like I should. This also meant I couldn't do water therapy until my incision was healed over. I didn't want to run the risk of an infection. I think if I could have done both, I may have recovered more quickly with building muscle strength. Nine Months Later Honestly, I forget that I ever had surgery. My scar is my reminder and even that has faded. I have no regrets and thank my heavenly Father every day for Dr. Rogerson and his team, for their unending support, compassion and expertise. I am truly blessed.
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