Charles, CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology via the SUPERCAP™ Technique Recipient

Charles, a 63-year-old Lantana resident, has fifty triathlons under his belt and finds training to be the most rewarding of challenges. However, in July 2008, while approaching the finish line of a triathlon, Charles' right hip grew sore, making it painful to complete the race. Though he finished, he knew he should seek out medical attention immediately.

Following this race, Charles' painful hip prevented him from moving laterally and it quickly became agonizing to get in and out of his car. The pain grew too strong to push through so, two weeks after his race, Charles consulted with a local surgeon. He was told that he had worn out the cartilage in his hip and had severe arthritis.

At the recommendation of the surgeon and with a strong desire to return to his sport, Charles underwent hip replacement surgery in September 2008. He spent four nights in the hospital followed by six weeks of physical therapy, at which point, he could comfortably ride a stationary bike. In February 2009, five months after his surgery, Charles began to re-engage in his typical physical activities. However, in September, Charles noticed a familiar pain, now in his left hip. Though initially not very severe, from that time until January 2010 the pain progressed, once again making daily activities a real struggle.

Having undergone hip replacement a year prior, Charles felt that the pain in his left hip required surgeon attention. Charles learned about Dr. Elvis Grandic of the Orthopaedic Center of Palm Beach County who was utilizing a new technique that featured a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery. Charles visited Dr. Grandic who suggested treating Charles' hip pain with Wright's CONSERVE® BFH® Hip through a tissue-preserving surgical technique called SUPERCAP™. Dr. Grandic is one of a select group of surgeons around the country performing the SUPERCAP™ tissue-sparing technique which allows for implantation of the total hip components through a single, small incision as an alternative to more invasive approaches that require a larger incision and significant cutting of tendons and other soft tissue around the hip joint. When the SUPERCAP™ technique is performed, the femur is not surgically dislocated (as it is during traditional hip replacement surgery) and, through this unique approach, very little soft tissue is disturbed, enabling a quicker and less painful recovery.

Charles had surgery February 8th and his recovery, compared to his first hip replacement, has been significantly faster. He only spent two nights in the hospital, compared to four after his right hip was replaced. And, he walked out of the hospital without a walker or cane - both of which he needed after his first surgery. One week after surgery, he was able to ride his stationary bike - an improvement of five weeks after his previous hip operation.

Charles says it has made all the difference in the world to return to physical activity so quickly. He recommends that anyone needing a hip replacement seek out a surgeon using this new technique. Charles explains "Since undergoing hip replacement surgery previously, I know how long recovery can take. I am very impressed that my recovery has been much faster this time around."

Wright's SUPERCAP™ tissue-sparing technique allows for implantation of the total hip components under direct vision through a single, small incision. This approach disturbs very little soft tissue during surgery, which may result in a less painful recovery for the patient. But, perhaps the most interesting fact related to this approach is that when the technique is performed as designed, the femur is never surgically dislocated during the procedure, and this also allows for a quicker recovery.
The SUPERCAP™ procedure was completed with the CONSERVE® BFH® hip, specifically designed to reduce dislocation because its larger size more closely mimics the body's natural anatomy than traditional hip implants. BFH® Technology allows patients to potentially achieve a 172° range of motion after surgery, versus the 130°-135° range that traditional implants offer. That extra range of motion can make a big difference to those trying to return to a normal, active life.
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.