Press Releases

Monterey, Calif. - August 11, 2005 - Board certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Ronald Chaplan, will present a program about the new surgical options for hip replacement on August 20 at 10 a.m. in the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula main conference room located at 23625 Holman Highway. Seating is limited to the first 150 guests.

Patients who undergo hip replacement surgery now have more options than ever and can expect shorter recovery times, with emphasis placed on returning to normal activities as quickly as possible. Chaplan will discuss and answer questions concerning surgical techniques, prosthetic devices, pain relievers, physical therapy and exercise. Dr. Chaplan is one of the leading orthopedic surgeons in Monterey County practicing the new minimally invasive technique for hip replacement surgery that involves smaller incisions and shorter recovery periods.

The most common cause for hip replacement surgery is chronic hip pain and disability from arthritis, muscular pain, damaged cartilage, fracture or range of motion difficulty. Patients who seek relief from these conditions should seek the expert advice and care of a certified orthopedic surgeon. A thorough evaluation by a surgeon should be conducted, which includes a medical and physical evaluation, x-rays, and other tests deemed necessary to determine physical condition.

The decision to undergo hip replacement surgery is a decision that should be made between a patient and their doctor. Surgery is not always required, and all treatment options should be exhausted before committing to a hip replacement procedure. If surgery is recommended, a new ball and joint device will be implanted in order to restore the alignment and function of the hip. Recovery time varies depending on the age of the patient, technique used and severity of the injury or condition. Usually, patients are walking within one or two days with assistance and can return to their previous activity level within four to six weeks.

Dr. Ronald N. Chaplan has specialized in orthopedic surgery for more than 24 years in Monterey, California. He is proficient in all areas, but concentrates in arthroscopic and minimally invasive joint replacement surgery of the ankle, knee and shoulder. He is one of the finest orthopedic surgeons in the country and was one of the first in the area to implement the minimally invasive procedure. During his medical training, he has worked with leading knee and hip replacement surgeons, and has been at the forefront of performing joint replacement surgery. Dr. Chaplan's practice is located at 900 Cass Street, Suite 200 in Monterey.  For more information call 831.655.2122.