The latest fad may not be the best medical treatment. But, what is the correct medical path to take?
Surgeons cautious on hip surfacing technique
SAN DIEGO (Reuters) – A relatively new technique to repair hips got a cautious reception at an annual meeting of U.S. orthopedic surgeons on Wednesday, with many doctors skeptical that the technology is ready for widespread use.
Surgeons cut away a tiny amount of the top of femur, conserving bone, versus a traditional total hip replacement.
Potential downsides of the new procedure include increased blood loss, high cost and the need for a larger incision, noted panelist Harry Rubash, a surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Rubash cautioned against rushing to the surfacing procedure. “It’s really not ready for widespread use. Be careful when you jump onto the latest fad,” he said.
The issue for many injured persons is what is the best medical path to my ultimate recovery. When there are alternative paths each patient needs all of the facts and opinions necessary to make an informed decision.
After representing seriously injured victims for over 35 years in Florida I realize I have a unique perspective on the options being presented to my clients by the medical providers of the world. Because my firm and I devote a significant part of our practice to medical malpractice we try to keep abreast of the medical treatments that create the most complications. This effort allows me to often serve as a warning device for clients who are weighing the benefits and risks of a medical procedure, device or technique.
It is not my place to make medical decisions, and I do not try to control the treatment choices of my clients. But, I do share my knowledge – to withhold it would be a failure to fully serve my clients, in my opinion.
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