Resurf Longevity

[Guest guest]

I don't have any statistics at my fingertips, but I think you'll find

some testimonials in the archives. I'll tell you, when I was facing

the choice of resurf vs THR -- I didn't hesitate to go with resurf.

THR's don't " last " either. Some have failed within a few years --

there's a woman who posts messages here who had that happen. And

once that femur is cut, there is no going back. Revisions are never

as " easy " as the original THR and more than 1 revision is not unheard

of. I have read posts from folks who are several years along with

their resurfs and they're doing fine. But even if this resurf I've

had only last a few years -- I'm that much ahead of the game insofar

as having THR and revisions. However, I fully expect this resurf to

last for years. As long as my bone stays healthy and as long as I

take reasonable precautions about infections. There IS the element

of risk -- with both procedures. And I would much, much rather have

my original joint with its lovely cartilege. But I don't. And I had

to do something. There is a woman I know who had her THR a week

before I had my resurf. She just got off using the walker about 2

weeks ago. She has no where near the movement I have. And she has

the ever-present chance of dislocation. When I thought THR was my

only option (before finding this message board) -- I was literally

sick to my stomach with the reality of what that procedure would do

to my lifestyle. Once I got the okay from Dr Gross's office -- that

sick feeling went away. I felt, viscerally, peaceful about this

choice. Anyway, that's one woman's opinion. Check the archives for

testimonials on your question. Good luck, Joyce (Dr Gross, LHR,

2/2/04)