PATH® Technique Patient Testimonials - Ray

CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology Recipient through the PATH® Minimally-Invasive Surgical Technique
A retired optometrist from California, Ray has spent a significant amount of time playing tennis, his lifetime hobby and passion. Ray, 72, played singles and doubles as often as four times a week. However, for the past two years, he depended on pain killers to relieve the acute pain in his left hip caused by osteoarthritis. Short movements on the court were bearable, but walking his dog on the concrete sidewalk became so excruciating, that he finally decided to seek medical attention.

Not knowing exactly where to start, Ray searched for “hip replacement surgery” on the Internet and was drawn to the success story of tennis legend Jimmy Connors, who received Wright’s CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology using the PATH® surgical technique. This hip replacement, designed to be more durable than traditional metal-on-plastic (polyethylene) components, reduces the risk of dislocation and allows active adults like Jimmy to get back on the court with confidence. Combined with the tissue-preserving PATH® technique, patients can many times recover in a matter of days to weeks instead of weeks to months.

Ray immediately made an appointment with Jimmy Connors’ surgeon, Dr. Brad Penenberg, from the Center for Minimally-Invasive Hip & Knee Arthroplasty. After realizing the severity of Ray’s osteoarthritis in his left hip, he remembers Dr. Penenberg’s amazement that he was even walking. Dr. Penenberg strongly recommended the same procedure that Jimmy Connors received; however, still determined to overcome the pain, Ray insisted on playing tennis until the day before the surgery.

Ray was implanted with the CONSERVE® Total Hip on May 7 and has so far experienced a remarkable recovery. He could get out of bed the very next day and reported very little pain and stiffness as he walked around the house without a cane. Although Dr. Penenberg recommended that he stay off the court for at least six weeks, Ray is keeping up with the sport by hitting tennis balls against a backboard. He is optimistic about his speedy recovery and holds high expectations: “Since Jimmy hit the ball after 6 weeks, I am aiming for 5 weeks.”

Besides playing tennis again, Ray is looking forward to dancing, walking his dog and playing with his only grandchild. “I am so utterly happy with the procedure, it is like a miracle. Dr. Penenberg is my hero now.” He already recommended Dr. Penenberg and the hip replacement surgery to two of his friends, saying, “You’re crazy if you DON’T do it!” After his surgery, Ray says that he is even more determined to achieve his all-time goal of competing at the legendary Wimbledon tennis tournament.

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.