THR Surgeon research / advice

Hi all –

(All names have been changed.)

I've been told I need a hip replacement. My physical therapist referred me to Dr. Davis, a general orthopedic surgeon, who confirmed that I need a total hip replacement. Given my medical history, however, Dr. Davis wants me to see a surgeon who specializes in the procedure, and has given me two names: Dr. Smith and Dr. Williams. Dr. Davis's office will submit a referral to whichever surgeon I choose.

I'm in the early stages of researching both doctors. In my search, I keep coming across lists of recommended questions to ask a surgeon when making this decision — things like annual procedure volume, implant type, and infection rates. My concern is that these seem like questions a surgeon's office would only discuss with an existing patient, rather than with the general public. Am I wrong about that? (Wouldn't be the first time!) Would it be appropriate to simply email the surgeon's office and ask directly, or is there a better approach?

The questions I'm most hoping to get answered – some my own, others drawn from various online resources – are:
* How many THRs do you perform per year?
* What type(s) of implant(s) do you use, and why?
* What is your preferred surgical approach, and why?
* What is your complication rate following surgery?
* How long is the typical hospital stay?
* What does the initial recovery period at home look like?
* What is the expected long-term recovery timeline?

Any input or advice is greatly appreciated — thanks in advance!