Updated on Jul. 23, 2024
Bev Mast, a vibrant 75-year-old, has always led an active lifestyle—enjoying tennis, golf and frequently traveling. Two years ago, her favorite activities came to a halt when her hip mobility became very limited, due to deterioration. As a retired teacher and school administrator of 25 years, and currently serving on the board at the senior center, Bev was determined to not let her hip pain rule her life.
Confronted with the fact that her hip osteoarthritis had advanced to stage 4, the final and most painful stage, Bev was initially hesitant about undergoing the total hip replacement. Dr. Jason Koh, co-medical director of the MemorialCare Rehabilitation Institute at Long Beach Medical Center suggested she schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrew Wassef, medical director of the MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center at Long Beach Medical Center about her hip. As soon as she met with him, she knew she was in the best hands.
“Dr. Wassef is terrific,” said Bev. “He always made sure that I was comfortable, and he had the best sense of humor throughout all our interactions. Surgery can be scary, but it helps when your doctor makes you feel more at ease during the process.”
The day of surgery arrived, and Bev’s experience at Long Beach Medical Center exceeded her expectations. Dr. Wassef used MAKO technology to complete her total hip replacement. Mako total hip replacement surgery uses a robotic-arm and includes real-time information and images of the hip, allowing for more precise placement of the hip implant. Mako Total Hip gives a new level of precision using the latest techniques in total hip replacement and it was a great option for Bev because it helped restore mobility so that she can continue to live her active lifestyle.
“The use of MAKO technology in hip replacement surgery allows for greater precision and personalized treatment, enhancing patient outcomes,” said Dr. Wassef. “At MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, our commitment to clinical excellence ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care, leading to more successful recoveries and improved quality of life.”
“The team at Long Beach Medical Center was outstanding,” said Bev. “They were incredibly nice throughout my stay, even before my surgery at 7 a.m. After my surgery when I stayed overnight, staff members visited me when I couldn't sleep, and they ensured my comfort my entire stay.”
The MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center believes in empowering their patients with education and support. Studies show that patients who are an active part of their rehabilitation and recovery have better outcomes, so the program offers strongly encouraged pre-operation educational classes as well as patient coach support program. Bev took the online pre-operative class that helped prepare her for surgery. In addition, her daughter was able to be with her from start to finish to help coach her and support her throughout the surgery process.
The MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center specializes in a rapid rehabilitation program where patients walk the same day of surgery, following the procedure Bev was up and walking with a walker the same day as her surgery and was elated to discover a significant improvement in her hip movement. Physical therapy after the procedure brought her hip rotation back and continued to increase her strength and mobility.
She can now play tennis with her granddaughters, travel, hike and engage in various activities that used to cause her pain. With trips planned to Alaska and Buenos Aires, she no longer worries about her hip giving out during her future adventures. The ability to move freely without pain has been liberating, and she no longer focuses on her hip first thing when she wakes up in the morning.
“Seeing patients like Bev regain their mobility and return to the activities that they love is incredibly rewarding,” said Dr. Wassef. “Our goal is to provide the highest level of care and support, ensuring a smooth recovery and a significant improvement in our patients’ quality of life.”
Bev’s journey through total hip replacement surgery has been transformative. She emphasized the importance of addressing hip pain before it becomes unmanageable.
“I strongly recommend going to see your doctor to anyone suffering from hip pain,” said Bev. “It is important to catch it early before your condition worsens.”
Reflecting on her journey at Long Beach Medical Center, Bev is grateful for the renewed lease on life her hip replacement has given her. She encourages others to consider their quality of life and not to fear surgery if it means regaining mobility and freedom from pain. Now, with many active, pain-free years ahead, Bev looks forward to a future without the limitations of hip pain, ready to embrace every moment fully.