Patient Testimonials

CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology using PATH
When Gary, 52, could barely tolerate the pain walking or even standing, he knew he had delayed setting a doctor’s appointment long enough. In May of 2007, Gary was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his left hip. Since an x-ray revealed bone rubbing on bone, his physician strongly suggested hip replacement surgery right away. Gary browsed the internet to find out exactly was entailed and, after watching a video of a traditional surgery, decided that he couldn’t go through such an invasive surgery with a long recovery process.

After coming across another video, this one with tennis legend Jimmy Connors and his CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology using the PATH® technique, Gary’s attitude toward hip replacements changed completely. This hip replacement, designed to be more durable than traditional metal-on-plastic (polyethylene) components, helps reduce the risk of dislocation, and allows active adults to return to their pre-pain lifestyle. The PATH® technique is a tissue-sparing procedure that preserves soft tissue and the function and stability in the hip joint.

Jimmy’s ability to walk, unassisted, the day after surgery impressed Gary and he proceeded to look up nearby surgeons. He immediately made an appointment with Dr. Kent Samuelson of Intermountain Health Care in Salt Lake City, Utah and had surgery on his left hip two weeks later, June 6, 2007. Three days after surgery, Gary embarked on a mile and a half walk and experienced very little discomfort and pain. He even felt strong enough to return to his job as a salesman, which consists of driving and walking to customers’ offices, the following Monday. Gary admits that he sometimes forgets that he recently had major surgery. “My biggest challenge is focusing on the fact that I had a new hip recently put in me. I don’t want to react too quickly and damage the quick healing process.” Although he feels confident walking without a cane, he brings a cane in public so that others will be careful around him.

Gary believes that the PATH® technique is the main reason he recovered so quickly. “It was a surprise when my physical therapist asked me, ‘how can you do that?’ but the real surprise was hearing my friend ask me the same question, because she had a hip replacement months earlier.” (The PATH® tissue-sparing technique was not used on his friend.) “I feel bad for those who do not have the opportunity to have this great procedure. Without the PATH® technique from Wright, I think I would have been on crutches for weeks.”

By the second week, Gary was cycling 60 minutes a day. He was back on the racquetball court and running by the sixth week and is currently training for the upcoming ski season. Gary is amazed how, before surgery, simple tasks such as walking and cutting the lawn took all of his energy. “I am mainly relieved that I can do anything I want to again, no excuses,” he says.

These results are specific to this individual only. Individual results and activity levels after surgery vary and depend on many factors including age, weight and prior activity level.
There are risks and recovery times associated with surgery and there are certain individuals who should not undergo surgery.
Only a physician can tell you if this product and associated procedure are right for you and your unique circumstances. Please consult with a physician for complete information regarding benefits, risks and possible outcomes.

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