PATH® Technique Patient Testimonials - Lawrence

CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology Recipient through the PATH® Minimally-Invasive Surgical Technique
Lawrence, 45, had suffered from chronic pain in his back, legs and hips for more than 17 years before finding out that the cause of his pain was the need for a total hip replacement. Because of his debilitating and chronic pain, he was unable to continue living his active lifestyle. A competitive athlete until he was 30, Lawrence was ultimately forced to quit his recreational basketball and baseball teams. An avid runner, he was unable to participate in races or marathons anymore. Lawrence stated, “My health was deteriorating, because I was forced to live an inactive life.” He had discomfort in both sides of his body, but his right side was considerably worse. He consulted many doctors, including a pain specialist, but nobody could pinpoint the source of his discomfort. Lawrence took heavy narcotics prescribed to dull the pain and they offered some temporary relief, but ultimately no hope of getting better long-term.

Aggravated with this lifestyle, he went to seek another opinion from a local orthopaedic surgeon. Dr. Barbour recommended a total hip replacement with the CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology using the PATH® Tissue-Sparing surgical technique. The CONSERVE® Total Hip is designed with a larger femoral head ball and socket that more closely matches the sizing of a natural femoral head, resulting in greater range of motion which may reduce the incidence of 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. The larger sized implant enables a greater range of motion, allowing most patients to enjoy a wider range of activities after their surgery. The PATH® surgical technique preserves the soft tissue and the function and stability in the hip joint. This approach to total hip replacement can make a big difference to those patients, like Lawrence, who are trying to return to a more normal, active lifestyle by offering a faster recovery.

Many doctors told Lawrence he was too young for a total hip replacement, but Dr. Barbour informed Lawrence this would have been true a year ago, but with the availability of this advanced treatment option, he was an appropriate candidate for surgery. In December 2006, Lawrence decided to proceed with a total hip replacement in his right hip.

Lawrence’s surgery and recovery went well. Lawrence isn’t experiencing the same throbbing pain he used to experience. Since his surgery in December, he is slowly getting back into his active lifestyle. “I can do many activities that don’t require intense speed like swimming, batting with my kids, and biking. I hope to get back into the competitive sports that I used to do. I couldn’t be happier that this new technology exists and that I don’t experience chronic pain anymore.”

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.