Andrew, CONSERVE^® Total Hip with BFH^® Technology Recipient

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Andrew Karasejczuk spent more than three years serving his country as an Army Ranger. Years of grueling service jumping out of planes, long marches with heavy rucksacks as well as a lifelong love of sports such as martial arts, biking and running eventually led to the deterioration of his hip joints.

In 2001, Andrew began to experience chronic hip pain that radiated up and down his hip and femur. It became progressively worse over five years to the point that it affected his ability to sleep, walk, and perform normal daily activities. "I tried everything-from chiropractors to massage therapists to relieve the pain -but nothing worked," said Andrew. "It just went downhill from there. I was taking painkillers just to go to sleep."

After having x-rays taken in the spring of 2006, Andrew learned that he had a fracture in the femoral head on right hip. He consulted Veterans Affairs surgeons after receiving the initial x-rays, and the doctors were surprised at the extensive joint damage. They showed him the plastic hip inserts that were used in traditional metal-on-plastic (polyethylene) hip replacements.

Not satisfied with the diagnosis that he would likely need a second hip surgery in 10-15 years if he chose the standard metal-on-plastic hip replacement, Andrew sought a second opinion from Dr. Marty Stachniw. Dr. Stachniw suggested treatment with the Wright's CONSERVE® Total Hip with BFH® Technology which has been shown, in test data, to be a longer lasting implant as it is comprised of metal-on-metal, instead of metal-on-plastic. The CONSERVE® BFH® Hip is also ideal for active patients, such as Andrew, because it more closely resembles the natural hip anatomy in size, reducing the potential for dislocation compared to traditional hip implants.

Andrew went with Dr. Stachniw's recommendation: "This was a new experience for me, and I didn't want to take the other route that the VA was offering." The day after surgery, Andrew was walking with a cane. "Even hours after the surgery, I felt better than before - pain-wise," says Andrew. Three weeks post-surgery, he was able to walk unassisted.

Andrew hopes to resume running and training in martial arts as soon as his muscles have gotten back to full-strength. "I can't wait to get back to my active life. My life got to a point where I was living like an 80-year-old. I couldn't walk, couldn't sleep - couldn't do anything." Post-surgery, Andrew commented, "This is the best sleep I've had in years!"

Wright's CONSERVE® BFH® Hip is designed to mimic the natural anatomy and motion of the hip. It features a larger femoral ball and socket design that more closely matches the sizing of a natural femoral head, resulting in greater range of motion, which can reduce the incidence of dislocation. In addition, the implant's metal-on-metal bearing surface is designed to offer the benefits of added durability and reduced wear compared to alternative treatment options. Furthermore, the larger implant enables a greater range of motion without impingement of the hip, allowing most patients to enjoy a wide range of activities after their surgery. This can make a big difference to those trying to return to a more normal, active lifestyle.

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.