"Back Operation Delay"

I have a prolapsed disc and have been waiting some time for a 'back-jack' device to be inserted between two vertebrae to reduce the bulging of the disc which is pinching the nerve to my left leg causing referred pain which at times is so severe I can barely walk.

I had a pre-op assessment in the Summer but have heard nothing since - it is some 6 months later. I am also receiving treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and have been receiving a 'biological' immuno-suppressant drug for the condition.

Due to a chest infection I stopped taking the drug recently whilst I recovered. This drug would have to be stopped anyway some time before an operation so now is the perfect time for the back operation. I cannot seem to get through on the phone to speak to a person in the orthopaedic department but have left messages with contact numbers. I have had no response.