"Hip replacement"

I was shocked to see how many people were waiting at 7am outside Hilton Main Ward on the day of my admission! Apparently with day cases there were 48 patients that day - remarkable. A bit more seating would be a good idea though. 

I was called in and waited for a while in Hollybank with other patients until beds on Hilton became ready. A nicely laid out bay of 4, all men. A nurse took me through questions and consents and later the anaesthetist came to discuss my requirements. I am terrified of needles and this was my second hip op. but I still opted for spinal for the advantages including no breathing tube/urinary catheter, no vomiting, longer pain relief and faster recovery. I opted for heavy sedation (or as I phrased it Full Space Cadet, although the anaesthetist didn't get it lol). 

Around midday it was my turn. I could have been wheeled to the anaesthetic room but opted to walk (slowly!) trying to keep my muscle strength up. The team in the anaesthetic room were very good, reassuring and calming. They knew I was scared and gave a small amount of sedative before the spinal jab. It took two attempts, guess it wasn't going in properly in the first spot. 

I don't actually recall being pushed through the doors into theatre. Part way through the procedure I was briefly aware of the table rocking, I think there was some serious chiselling going on, and aware there were people around me, but that's it. Next thing I knew I was coming round in the recovery room, where I was for about an hour and a half before going to my bed on the ward. 

The numbness lasted for another 4 hours or so and I managed (like last time) to pee the bed. However I had no control and that was good thing as it meant I wasn't going to need a catheter. Great humour and banter from the other chaps and the nursing staff being drawn in too was a very positive thing for the mood.

The night in hospital was never going to be fun, maybe an hour sleep due to pain and noise but that's expected. I was checked on and given regular pain relief. Next day was xray, physio, OT, bloods etc. in preparation for discharge that evening. My surgeon saw me twice on the day of the op and twice the next day. Mr Sur needs a permanent post!

All of the staff, surgeon, anaethetic, ward, X ray, physio, ot, porters, cleaners were super and supportive. The hospital is clean and focused. 6 days on and I am very much better than I was at this point last time. No signs of infection, needing less pain relief and moving better.

I think it's fair to say they have done a good job. Well done to Cannock Chase Hospital and thank you.