"Orthopaedics"

Anything else?

In July 2013, I underwent an operation to correct a problem with my knee. From the moment I got to B1 on the morning of my operation to the time I left in the afternoon of the following day, I had excellent treatment. All of the staff on the ward put me at my ease and treated me with dignity. Nothing was too much trouble for them. They ensured that I was going home with all the information I needed and arranged for some equipment for me to take home to help during my convalescence. My only area of concern has been my associated outpatient consultations. I feel that I was not given the full picture on the length of time of my convalescence, I was originally told that I would be 6 weeks non-weight bearing and then be able to return to normal. However, 6 weeks non-wieght bearing lead onto a furhter 6 weeks partially weight bearing (with no complications occuring) and I am still recovering, though finally back at work after 12 weeks, I am still having difficulty walking unaided 16 weeks post op. I am lucky enough to have a very understanding employer, but that could have been very different. As there have been no complications and everything has gone well with recovery and physiotherapy for me, this recovery time must be normal. It should have been expained from the outset to allow planning for cover at work etc. I am an employee of The Dudley Group NHSFT and am perplexed as to how little information is given to patients. It has opened my eyes being a patient here.