"ankle replacement surgery"

I was referred for this operation by my G.P. having researched online and finding that a surgeon here seemed to be the most experienced surgeon in ankle replacement in this area and chose to go to mount stuart hospital as it seemed most convenient for me. I had to wait a few months to get an appointment but was happy to wait to get the surgeon of my choice. After investigations and initial consultation my options were explained and questions answered.I was given time to be sure about my decision and we decided at a second appointment that ankle joint replacement was the best option for me . I was initially booked in in May . Unfortunately this was unavoidably postponed until August

I had a pre - op assessment two weeks before and was assessed and advised by a physio and given relevant equipment.

I was admitted on August 7th at 12.30.pm and by 3pm I was on my way to theater where a spinal anaesthetic was given by the anaesthetist who had explained the procedure earlier. This numbed my legs and lower body and was a very strange experience but obviously not painfull. This apparently meant that i needed only a very light anaesthetic which was very effective as I dont remember anything else till i woke in my room with my leg in plaster and a new ankle joint. I had no pain as my legs were still numb and stayed like that till the next morning. I was even able to have a light supper . One unexpected side effect of the spinal block was that I was incontinent of urine without any sensation it was happening which was a bit embarrassing although the nurses were very kind and reassuring . I was given some tablets for pain but experienced very little even when the numbness wore off in the morning.

After being checked on by my consultant and the anaesthetist and physio i was allowed up on crutches non weight bearing on my new ankle and pronounced fit to go home that afternoon after lunch.

The whole experience was made surprisingly non traumatic by all the pleasant efficient and helpful staff. I came back to see the surgeon in two weeks and he replaced my plaster with a boot. Today I had an xray and another appointment with the surgeon and the boot can come off and all is healing beautifully and i can look forward to being pain free for the first time in years!

Thankyou all again