...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...
Dr. H.D. Huddleston
The Hip and Knee Institute
5525 Etiwanda Ave., #324
Tarzana, CA 91356
Tel: 818.708.9090
