"Infections ??"

I was admitted in late September to undergo planned spinal decompression surgery along with the insertion of Aspen spinal fixtures. The first problem arose when I was informed that I had attended 6 hours early, although I did produce my appointment letter with an attendance time of 06.30. I was advised to go home and return later that afternoon. I did advise them that I was not in a position to pay yet another 20 pounds to comply with their request and thankfully a reclining chair was found in the pre surgery lounge where I was able to catch minimal sleep.

After having to walk to the theatre (quite a distance considering the pain in both legs due to my condition) I met the anaesthetists, made comfortable as possible, and before I knew it I was back in bed on Aldbourne Ward.

After a brief stay there I was transferred to the main door and left waiting for the taxi which had been booked for my return home. Lesson 2. Never use V Cars again !

All seemed to be going fine until roughly 10 days later when excruciating back pain and eventual collapse on my part necessitated my emergency re admission with a huge spinal infection which required further surgery and a subsequent stay in a type of

Ken Keasey unit. I was near the point of walking out and have continued with my huge A/B and oral medications at home, not the best scenario I know, but it beats counting ceiling tiles and being subjected to screaming alzheimers patients across the hall 24/7 and cleaners who considered 5.45 AM a suitable time to commence their shift in the room. Upon discharge (still no discharge Lounge....does it really exist ?) I had to make my way to the outside door on the ground floor where a pre booked taxi was eating for me, along with a driver who whined all the way home, (V Cars again !)

During the second surgery the metal work inserted by the surgeon was removed and no one was willing to tell me just why it had, although a subsequent OPAC nurse has informed me that it is more than likely to have caused the infection.

I have an O/P appointment with the surgeon in December and I do hope that there is no suggestion I am admitted again for further surgery .....first time as an in patient in 40, and the last at GWH hopefully

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