One step at a time

– Random Writings: Column by Rebecca Lindquist –

In previous columns, I had written about dealing with painful sciatica. My doctor referred me to an orthopedic surgeon, who began with a series of x-rays. That process was extremely painful. Several x-rays were taken while I stood, but several necessitated laying on a table, with my right leg turned at various angles that, quite frankly, my hip wouldn’t readily allow.

The doctor knew immediately from perusing the x-rays, what the underlying problem actually was. It wasn’t sciatica at all, though the pain radiating down my leg and in my hip, mimicked that diagnosis.

Lo and behold, my right hip was devoid of cartilage, leaving bone-on-bone. I was given two options: to receive a cortisone shot, which may, or may not, offer temporary relief; or, to have a complete hip replacement.

I had suffered with this painful affliction for almost two years, so there was absolutely no hesitation or indecision on my part, to agree to a total hip replacement. I was extremely curious about the entire procedure and intrigued with how the surgery would be performed.

My poor surgeon probably thought I was a nut job, with all the questions I asked regarding the operation. My main concern, was how long the procedure would take place. (I’m an old lady and need to go to the bathroom every couple hours.)

He reassured me it would only take approximately an hour and a half (one crisis averted). Then, I was curious if I would be able to wear underwear, since the incision would be on my hip. Trivial question, in retrospect, but something I needed to know.

My doctor was so patient and matter-of-fact, answering all my goofy questions. What struck me as funny, was the doctor told me my incision wouldn’t have sutures, it would be glued together. I laughed and told him he’ll need a lot of super glue for this hip.

The date was set and I counted down the days in eager anticipation. I had to have a COVID test prior to the operation and self-isolate. A package arrived in the mail the week prior to my surgery, containing three bottles of shower soap. That was unexpected.

I was to shower three days before the operation, using one entire bottle each day. My issue with that, was the instructions specifically stated to not use any lotion, perfume or deodorant after each shower. (I’m relieved I was self-isolating...I was afraid I smelled like a herd of goats.)

My daughter, Hannah, drove me to the hospital the morning of my surgery. She was able to go everywhere I went until I was taken into the operating room. I was so impressed with how smoothly everything progressed.

I was taken into a preparation room, where two nurses came in and wiped down my entire body with warm bath wipes, clothing me in a surgical gown. My doctor, who performed the surgery, came in to address any last concerns or answer any questions. He also made marks on my hip where the incision would be.

As I was wheeled to the operating room, Hannah was taken to a waiting room. She was given a business-type card that had my patient number on it. There was a huge monitor set up where Han could continually check on my progress. My number would be displayed, showing the time the operation started, an update during the procedure, the time the doctor closed and then when I was admitted to recovery.

I love how efficient that was and it kept Hannah in the loop the entire time. I was so relaxed beforehand. I had so much confidence in my doctor, I wasn’t apprehensive in the least. The surgical team was so amazing and very calming, as well.

I remember the anesthesiologist saying, “I’m going to administer the anesthesia...” and that’s the last thing I recall before the nurse told me they were wheeling me back to my room. I couldn’t believe I slept through the entire thing. It was a total of four hours, from the time the operation started, through the recovery room, until I got to my assigned room.

I remember how surprised I was, waking up, that there was minimal pain in my hip. I’m sure pain killers helped with that, but it was still such a feeling of relief.

I started physical therapy a couple days after surgery, and was shocked with the lack of pain. It took my left leg some time to register it was OK to take a step. In my mind, it associated walking with excruciating pain, so I had to learn to trust my new hip.

If anyone is “on the fence,” whether or not to have a hip replacement procedure, I highly recommend doing so. It’s amazing what a life enhancer it is. You won’t regret it.