Knee Arthroscopy

 

Hopefully It's going to be third time lucky with the twice cancelled Knee Op. Previously Covid and Doctors Strikes have conspired top prevent me going under the knife. Although these days there isn't a knife involved as such. Arthroscopy is used to treat a wide range of knee problems.The surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the knee joint. The camera displays pictures on a video monitor, the Surgeon uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments. All very simple really.... Once checked in, I am shown to a private room which will be mine for the day. 'The John Barnes Room.'He must have had his fair share of injuries too I would imagine. It has been an early start and there is still a couple of hours at least to go before going down to Theatre at 10:30. I need to get into the dreaded hospital gown in good time. It was at this point I realised I had forgotten to bring my own Dressing Gown. 

The time passes all too quickly as I am visited by a host of interested parties. The Anesthetist, The Nurse, My Consultant, A Nurse to take my Blood Pressure, and perhaps most importantly the Catering Manager to take my order from the menu as I start to come back to life. In charge today is Mr Odei Shannak who specialises in hip and knee joint replacements,  and arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery of the knee. I'm in safe hands. All other options including Steroid injections have been exhausted. The surgery today is the last resort.
Right on the stroke of 10:30 there is a knock on the door (another one). Like the condemned man I taken down to the Operating Theatre. I have secured an additional gown, which I am wearing back to front to preserve some dignity.The old blood pressure is a bit high, not surprisingly really. After that It's all a bit of a blur really. One minute I was there , and then I wasn't....   

After re-awakening I am wheeled back off to the room. I seem to drift in and out of sleep. Peppermint Tea and Shortcake biscuits provide much needed sustenance.There is also the promise that the soup and toasted sandwich ordered earlier will be arriving soon. My knee looks huge, like it has been inflated with a bike pump and bandaged up.I have no enthusiasm for the TV or my book, or sleeping for that matter. An ideal time to meditate perhaps? Unfortunately that was short lived too. This state of nothingness must be what it is like in the twilight zone? Thankfully in the nick of time the food arrives and gives me focus. It went down a treat, and if not quite rejuvenated I was certainly perked up. The Nurses were very helpful and attentive, keeping me topped up with Painkillers. By about 4;30 PM it was time to go home. Rest being the order of the day! Not that I could do much else really.  As I recall a very good nights sleep was enjoyed.     

After a couple of days the outer bandages had already worked themselves loose. Just the entry points were left covered. It all looks pretty good really. I've managed a couple of short walks and even hosted a Quiz at the local WMC.Have to remind myself not to overdo things. Thoughts of a bike ride are a long way off. Keep doing the exercises prescribed, slow and steady wins the race. I have to return to the hospital on 21st March to have the stitches removed. 

It has been a long process, the best part of 2 years since the original injury. I am really hopeful though that will make a massive difference. My thanks go to all the staff at Three Shires Hospital , Northampton who were incredibly helpful and supportive.