Hear What Patients Have To Say / Patient Success Stories
Deborah Killeffer
Debbie Killeffer is a 56-year-old woman who enjoyed biking, canoeing, kayaking and taking her Golden Retriever on long walks. Like many people, Debbie was struggling with extreme hip pain that prevented her from participating in her favorite activities.
Debbie's primary care physician referred her to an orthopedic surgeon for further diagnosis. "My prognosis was not straight osteoarthritis. The x-ray showed bone-on-bone contact and spurring consistent with an old injury." Her surgeon recommended joint replacement as the best treatment for her condition.
Debbie researched the internet extensively. She also went to her local library's online lending service and ordered many books on the issue. As Debbie indicated, "I felt that educating myself was part of the key to unlocking the knowledge I needed to cope with the change in my life." Debbie had heard about hip resurfacing and hoped she would be a candidate. However, because of the condition of her hip, Dr. Snyder explained that Debbie was not a good candidate for resurfacing.
Debbie said, "Dr. Snyder indicated that I was the perfect candidate for the Taperloc® Microplasty™ Hip System, also known as the "chili pepper". The shorter stem preserves bone and soft tissues, offering a minimally invasive alternative to hip resurfacing.
"My recovery has been truly amazing. It surprised me how rapid the recovery and recuperation was. When I first stood up in the hospital after surgery and went for a walk down the corridor, I couldn't stop the tears from spilling out from my eyes. I was so incredibly amazed. Sticking closely to the physical therapist's suggestions and plans, I was recovering much quicker than expected."
Debbie felt healthy enough to return to work within 60 days, and to perform her household duties within 30 days. She continues to receive aqua therapy twice weekly, and is also returning to all the activities she enjoys.
Debbie has some advice for those living with daily hip pain. "Living without pain is absolutely divine, and worth experiencing the anxiety prior to surgery (albeit unnecessary in my experience). People who live in pain should realize what a tremendous change it would be to have the procedure and live healthier."
This article is meant solely as a human interest story and is not meant to constitute medical advice.
While the patient in this story is a true joint replacement recipient, her results are not necessarily typical, indicative, or representative of all joint replacement patients. Joint replacements have been used successfully in achieving restored mobility to many patients. However, as with any implanted device, there are factors affecting performance which ultimately result in variable outcomes, including levels of mobility and pain. These factors include, but are not limited to, the patient’s pre and post-operative health conditions, weight, activity level, and adherence to instructions regarding the use of the affected joint. Due to these variables, it is not possible to predict specific results or patient satisfaction. For additional information regarding joint replacement, refer to the patient risk information located at the top of this page and talk to your orthopedic surgeon.
The persons named in this article have consented to be named and have given Biomet, Inc. the exclusive right to use their personal and medical information for educational purposes.
Where would you like to go next?
- Return to Patient Success Stories
- Find-a-Doctor Directory
- Request Additional Information
- Joint Replacement Home
- Main Patient Page
brochure to help you make an educated decision about your treatment options. 