"Superb treatment for total knee replacement"

As a fully paid up member of the wimps' brigade, I was full of apprehension but was reassured from the start and throughout my treatment. This reassurance began at the initial consultation with the surgeon who explained with great clarity the procedure, the risks and the need to take all the pain killers and to undertake the pre and post op exercises. My wife and I were given time to ask questions and gain confidence in him and the outcome of the operation. This confidence was not ill-placed, because thanks to his skill and that of the team, I have a right knee that is free of pain and bends nearly as well as it did decades ago. The Joint School and the superbly written Patient Handbook (Knee Replacement) provided clear, reassuring and helpful information. Together, they spelt out what the surgery involves, the outcomes that can be expected and above all, the patient is forewarned of some of the uncomfortable post operative symptoms that are common for the first couple of months. Undertaking the recommended exercises are instrumental in aiding the recovery that I am making. I was extremely anxious about the spinal anaesthetic but I could not have asked for a more understanding, reassuring and encouraging anaesthetist. Together with the theatre staff who took me down for the operation and the nurse who sat with me in recovery all showed great empathy and exuded reassurance. Despite not having a full anaesthetic, I am unaware of the actual procedure and remember nothing of the actually operation. The nursing care I received following the operation and for four the four days I was an inpatient was excellent. However, because of the bed shortage at the time (January / February) I was not placed on the orthopaedic ward and was given a single room (hence my comment above on same sex accommodation). Every attempt was made to ensure that I was as comfortable as possible and the pain was reduced. I am currently receiving post-operative out-patient physiotherapy which is provided by a different NHS Trust. The physiotherapists are equally dedicated, encouraging and professional. My first real experience in 68 years of inpatient hospital care has fulfilled my high expectations of the NHS and I await the operation on my other knee with far less trepidation. Thank you.