I have been diagnosed with Perthes when I was 15 and hav ehad pain since then. I had limited mobility but was able to live my life till now. 2 weeks back there was a severe pain in my right hip and i have been given strong pain killers and steroid. It helps but the pain is still there. I have been told to look at total hip replacement as an option. Not sure if someone else did that and how they are feeling.
This was very late for a diagnosis of Perthes and it is a fact that the later the diagnosis, the higher risk of needing a THR sooner rather than later. In the Association we have several ladies (and men) who have had THR's in their 20's and 30's. Did you have a steroid injection are you taking steroids orally? If you want to talk to someone, you can call our helpline Perthes Association - 01483 306637 or email admin@perthes.org.uk
Thanks for the quick response. Yes I am taking steroid injections and I am in the US. My worry about getting THR is that how long does the prostheses last and what if we need to get it replcaed after 15 years. How complicated will be the revision surgery? Any suggestions on a good prostheses (metal on metal or ceramic).
Yes, I would love to talk to someone who had done their THR at their early ages and how is the prognosis.
I have met people whose metal prosthesis has lasted almost 20 years and who have had revisions successfully. The ceramic hip is said to have a life of at least 20 years and up to 30 and is used for younger and more active candidates. Send and email to the address on the previous post and we will put you in touch with others who have had successful THR.