Routine follow-up is at 6 weeks, 1 year, 2 years and every other year thereafter. We can accommodate remote follow-up if everything is going well and return travel is too inconvenient. We prefer to see patients in person at the first 2 visits. The first 2 follow-up visits involve a questionnaire, an exam and an x-ray.

At the 2-year follow-up we request a questionnaire, an x-ray and metal ion levels. All subsequent checks require only a questionnaire and an x-ray. Additional visits or tests are sometimes needed if problems arise. Questionnaires are available online, as are prescriptions for x-rays and physical therapists who perform the exams. We generally do not recommend seeing another doctor.

Please see the Follow-Up section of Columbia Hip Protocol for details. Typically x-rays are less expensive at independent centers rather than high-priced hospitals. Metal ion levels should be done at Quest labs.