Free hip replacement surgery, a collaborative initiative between the Military Hospital 175 Orthopaedic Institute and Operation Walk Chicago (OWC), offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with debilitating hip pain and limited mobility.
The Perils of Pain Medication Dependence and the Impact on Lives
Many patients, particularly those with hip or joint injuries sustained from accidents or demanding work, often rely on pain medication, especially those containing corticosteroids, to manage their pain. However, overuse of these medications can lead to serious complications, exacerbating the condition. Delaying timely medical attention can result in joint necrosis and even disability, severely impacting both the patient’s and their family’s quality of life and financial well-being.
Mr. Bùi Viết Thành (42, Ho Chi Minh City), a prime example, endured three years of debilitating hip pain after a traffic accident. His self-treatment with pain medication unfortunately worsened his condition, causing hip necrosis. He shared the financial hardship that prevented him from seeking proper treatment, highlighting the vital need for the free hip replacement surgery to restore his mobility.
Mr. Vương Khánh Việt (40, Khanh Hoa), a manual laborer, faced similar challenges. His demanding work and pain medication abuse resulted in progressive hip necrosis, severely impacting his work and family life.
Mr. Nguyễn Văn Bảnh (66, Ben Tre), a poor laborer and accident victim, suffered a fractured femur and endured ten years of relentless pain. His meager income made proper treatment inaccessible, leaving pain medication as a temporary solution. He expressed hope that free surgery would alleviate his suffering and allow him a fresh start.
Free Hip Replacement: Offering Hope to the Vulnerable
The free hip replacement program at Military Hospital 175, in partnership with OWC, provides crucial support to financially disadvantaged patients. The program covers the full cost of artificial hip replacement surgery, a substantial expense typically ranging from 80-100 million VND per hip. This initiative has already restored mobility and significantly improved the quality of life for numerous patients.
Benefits of the Program
- Full coverage of surgical expenses: Alleviates financial burdens for patients in need.
- Thorough pre-surgical screenings: Ensures patient safety and surgical efficacy.
- Expert consultations and treatment plans: Addresses complex cases with comprehensive care.
- Post-operative rehabilitation guidance: Promotes faster recovery and return to normal life.
Preventing Hip Necrosis – A Crucial Aspect of Health
Dr. Phan Đình Mừng, Deputy Director of Military Hospital 175, emphasizes that corticosteroid pain medication abuse, smoking, and inactivity are major factors in femoral head necrosis. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and routine checkups are critical for preventing and managing joint problems.
The Importance of Community Support and Solidarity
The free hip replacement program epitomizes community compassion and support, not only improving patient health but also enhancing the well-being of the entire community. Military Hospital 175 and OWC demonstrate commitment to providing hope and recovery opportunities to those in need, improving the overall quality of life for everyone. The program will continue to expand its reach to provide vital treatment and hip replacement options for more vulnerable individuals in the future.
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