Choosing a Hip Device and Surgeon by Dr. Huddleston
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This information is from Dr. Huddleston’s Website…The hip implant parts are expensive, and there are many competing brands. Many hospitals contract with suppliers for a volume discount, and then restrict the surgeon’s choice to the contracted brand. That product may not be the best available, or the best implant for you.
Worse yet, some hospitals carry cheap, bottom-of-the-line, “low demand implants” for older patients, often defined as being over 65. The new metal-on-metal, and ceramic–on-ceramic designs are more expensive, and hospitals often restrict their use, even for younger patients.
You should find out if your surgeon is restricted in his choices by his hospital. If so, find a good surgeon who works out of a hospital that leaves the implant choice to him. Alternately, offer to pay the hospital the difference for the more expensive implant. The difference could be as little as $1000 before the hospital’s mark-up, and worth every penny.
Many older people these days are in good health, live very active lives, and expect to live well into their nineties. Clearly these are “high demand” patients who deserve a high quality hip replacement that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.
Choose the best surgeon, have him tell you exactly what implant he plans to install in your hip (brand name, manufacturer, and what the parts are made of), and then do some research to find out if it is what you want and need… READ COMPLETE ARTICLE
This information is from Dr. Huddleston’s WebsiteDr. H.D. Huddleston
The Hip and Knee Institute
5525 Etiwanda Ave., #324
Tarzana, CA 91356
Tel: 818.708.9090Dr. Huddleston is in no way connected to this website, but the information he provides on his website is invaluable to a person considering hip replacement.