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Patient Testimonials

Joe, CONSERVE® Left Hip with BFH® Technology
More than 10 years ago, Joe began feeling a slight discomfort in his left hip after an intense hockey game. As an athlete, Joe ignored the pain expecting it would heal itself with time. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.

Over the next five years the pain worsened and Joe sought physical therapy to help with the pain and tightness. The physical therapy did little to help the pain and actually caused more soreness in his muscles. Joe continued to live with the pain for a few additional years, unwilling to acknowledge that he may be a candidate for hip surgery.  Then the pain became too severe.

“I couldn’t walk for more than 20 minutes without pain,” Joe says. “It got so bad that I needed to lift my left leg with my hands to get into my car after running errands. When I couldn’t run around with my son and play anymore, I knew something had to change.”

Joe consulted with Dr. Ted Firestone, a local orthopedic surgeon. After reviewing x-rays, Dr. Firestone recommended Wright’s CONSERVE® Total Hip Replacement with BFH® Technology to correct the bone-on-bone friction in Joe’s hip. Joe was reluctant to move forward with surgery even though his hip throbbed with pain that radiated down his legs and up his back.

“I enjoy being active. I play golf competitively, and I didn’t want a new hip getting in my way,” Joe explains. “Then Dr. Firestone explained that the BFH® Technology hip replacement was designed to allow for a greater range of motion with less potential for dislocation.” Joe decided to move forward with the surgery as long as Dr. Firestone promised to have him back on the golf course in two months for a tournament at his country club.

Dr. Firestone used a tissue sparing surgical technique to help preserve the soft tissue in Joe’s hip. Only two months after surgery, Joe not only competed in the members/guest golf tournament, but his team came in first place! “It was such an achievement for me to be back on the golf course and win only a couple of months after surgery. Before I had my hip replaced, I could hardly play nine holes of golf without being in excruciating pain – never mind three days of 18-hole golf,” Joe says.

In addition to being able to play golf again, Joe is pleased to have his regular swing back. “My range of motion had decreased, and I wasn’t able to follow through and land on my left leg when swinging. I had to invent a back pivot swing that just wasn’t as effective as following through,” Joe shares. “Now I have my swing back and my game back. I just wish I had surgery earlier. I just had this preconceived notion that I was too young for hip replacement, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Since having his hip replaced, Joe’s quality of life had improved exponentially. He sleeps through the night instead of tossing and turning in pain unable to find a comfortable position. He is also beginning to exercise again. Additionally, Joe’s range of motion has improved and even surpassed that of his right leg.

“I had always run, but my hip pain put an end to that. Before I had surgery I couldn’t even walk on the treadmill, and as a result, I was starting to put on weight. Now, I cycle and work out on the elliptical and enjoy my aerobic exercise. My pain and soreness is gone. My hip is so much better and stronger that I don’t even think about it anymore. It is amazing.”

Wright’s CONSERVE® Total Hip is designed to replicate the natural anatomy and motion of the hip. It features a larger femoral ball and socket design that more closely matches the sizing of a natural femoral head, resulting in greater range of motion, and can reduce the potential for dislocation. In addition, the implant’s metal-on-metal bearing surface is designed to offer the benefits of added durability and reduced wear compared to alternative treatment options. Furthermore, the larger implant, in conjunction with PROFEMUR® modular necks, enables a greater range of motion without impingement of the hip, allowing most patients to enjoy a wide range of activities after their surgery. This can make a big difference for those trying to return to a more normal, active lifestyle.

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.

It's important to Wright to be consistently responsive to surgeons and patients - their ideas and suggestions are an integral part of our partnership, as well as our continued improvement process.