Hip Replacement: Fitted vs Cemented - Knee & Hip Problems Message Board

pach · 06-19-2005, 02:37 PM

I had my hip replaced on 3/1/05. The doctor fitted it instead of cementing. And I was not allowed to put more than 20 lbs on it for the first 8+ weeks and out of work for 3 months. Has anyone else had their hip fitted? What kind of issues have you had? I suffer from AVN and my other hip will eventually need to be done.

hip2it · 06-19-2005, 06:03 PM

Hello!

I had the fitted one too. It's turned out great. I had read that the cement can dislodge and float around your body (some say it can be cancerous). My doctor said that cement is usually only used if the bone is so unstable that there is a question about the femur strength itself and it's more likely done in someone along in years (like 82+ years old).

I have only had my new hip for about 6 1/2 months, and I don't really have many issues (other than trying to get the strength back without doing too much too soon).

Good luck.

legtoolong · 06-20-2005, 07:44 AM

Hi
Both my hips were fitted as well. I had the same restrictions for the first 8 weeks. My doc said it is much easier if you have revision later to get out--he hates getting the cemented ones out.

My only issue is that the second surgery made my legs 3/4" different in length--you can read the things I wrote before under "legtoolong". I don't think this has anything to do with being fitted rather than cemented. When you have your second one done, ask the doc how he is going to make sure they come out the same. It may not change the outcome, but let him know you are concerned.

I'm close to 6 months now (Jan. 05) and am anxious to see what he says when he takes the standing x-ray of both hips. He has generally acted like it is no problem, but he doesn't have to walk on it. I'm doing OK with the correction in my shoe but I'm still unhappy with the result.

pach · 06-20-2005, 08:52 AM

Hi Legtoolong and Hip2it;

My Dr said my right leg was over 1" shorter and that during surgery he tried extened my leg 1/2". He said it is his experience if he had evened them out it would have felt like my right leg was 2" longer. I did notice the length difference but figured alot of that could be because my femoral head had collapsed which would have shortened my leg even more all that time I walked on it.

Most people I know here had their hips cemented. A few medical staff at the hospital told me that was what lazy Dr's did so they cld get the surgery and recovery over with faster. A guy at work who was 30 yrs old had his hip done for AVN too and he walked the next day. That had to be cemented. But he didn't know.

There is a new surgical procedure I read about. 2 small incisions one in front one in back. Very minimal if any damage to muscles and tendons etc... I found the article online but I can't remember where.

I worked in the medical field for years as a nurse in Dr's ofc's and teaching Medical Assisting but have no orth or PT experience. That wld be helpful now.

Hope you have a great day.

MrsLinda · 06-21-2005, 04:43 AM

You know, now I have to find out. If I told you I don't know whether or not I have cemented or not would you believe me??

On one hand I vaguely remember the doctor saying it was not cemented. But then I was able to put full weight on the the hip immediately. So now I'm confussed.

Is it possible to have an uncemented and have full weight bearing??????