Minimally Invasive Anterior Hip Replacement - Dr. Jesse Chrastil

Dr. Jesse Chrastil explains what a minimally invasive anterior hip replacement is, the benefits and risks, and what to expect from the recovery.
Dr Jesse Chrastil is an orthopedic surgeon at Panorama Orthopedics in Denver, Colorado and he specializes in hip and knee replacement. Learn more about Dr. Chrastil:
www.panoramaortho.com/find-a-...

[@annk9817]

I am almost 5 months post-op from my Direct Anterior THR on my right hip. Was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in my right hip around this time last year after getting x-rays done. Had been walking around with a pretty bad limp on the right side for roughly 2 years. Was referred to what turned out to be an EXCELLENT orthopedic surgeon. He suggested surgery bcz of the severity of my hip. I will say that I am so thankful I got it done. Had spinal anesthetic, but also had a nerve block in my hip on top of that. The stuff they give you in the IV definitely makes you sleepy. I remember nothing of my surgery. I was wheeled into surgery from pre-op and next thing I know I'm waking up in post-op to see my older brother's face. My surgery was outpatient, but not all are. I also was only out of work 4 weeks from my job. No restrictions. Just had to be careful. I will say that my surgeon didn't prescribe outpatient PT, but I did have at home exercises to do on top of A LOT of walking. Used a walker for 1st week and then a cane for a few weeks after
. To anyone who is considering THR, do not hesitate. Yes, it can be scary, but totally worth it.

[@chemlabgal7564]

I am three months out. Before surgery I was walking 5 miles a day. Back to it but not so comfortable. I still have some swelling and pain in both the groin and back of my hip that is exacerbated with activity. Being athletic I am used to a bit of pain so I am mostly ignoring this albeit harder to do so at night when there is less to distract me. Two am podcasts are becoming a thing.

[@CrazyHeat59]

I'm at my 14 day period after anterior hip replacement, still walking with cane. I still have a lot of " stiffness" when I walk or stand for longer periods of time. Sitting in a chair other then my recliner is very uncomfortable, is this all normal?

[@chemlabgal7564]

I would say pretty normal. Everyone is different. My neighbor and I had the same surgery and recovery was very different. I was walking unassisted much earlier

[@annk9817]

It is totally normal. My experience with stiffness did last awhile too. I'm also pretty sure I might have some permanent nerve damage, but was told by my surgeon that's a possibility. Hope you are doing well!

[@CrazyHeat59]

@@annk9817 Still have the pain and numbness in thigh still its been only 7 months fingers crossed

[@annk9817]

​@@CrazyHeat59Everybody's case is different. I read and also heard before my surgery that with any THR you aren't really totally healed until 1 year post-op. What helps me is I massage the area. Being careful of course to not rub too hard. I try to not just stay sitting all day if I'm on my day off from work. Now, right after my surgery I was prescribed a Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen mixture to use as needed. Only used that maybe for 4 days after the surgery. I'm sure you know this, but if you have any concerns let your surgeon and his staff know. My surgeon had me do a 3 month assessment by email and I'm coming up on my 6 month assessment here in a few weeks. Definitely keep your fingers crossed. I also asked for a lot of prayers from my friends and family. If you want to keep me updated.