Here we are back in the land of the living and feeling pretty good. I had the operation at about 2:00 on Tuesday afternoon and for some reason it took almost twice as long as they expected (big hands?) They gave me a nice side room off the ward all to myself.
Contrary to what they had told me, the anaesthetist decided that I would have a general as opposed to a local anaesthetic. His polite teutonic explanation of the reason for this was 'You are a strong man', which I took to mean that they didn't want me thrashing round the theatre if they accidentally touched a nerve in the site of the surgery. My concern was that I get out of the place ASAP and he said that I would still be able to go home the same day. OK bud, you got yourself a deal!
After the deed was done they wheeled me back to my room where Cathy and Jamie were waiting to take the obligatory photo. I felt pretty good but looking at the photo, I think I may have been just a tad bolloxed! What do you think?
After several successful rounds of vital signs observations, they let me out at around 8:15 in the evening, supplying me with a pack each of Voltarol, Tramadol and pure Codeine. By 9:15, believe me, I was in no pain whatsoever and was the owner of a splendidly fashioned sling support (made from a mic stand) and a very satisfied facial expression.
Sleeping the first night was a bit of a no-no, just too much pain despite throwing as many opiates as I dared down my neck. Yesterday too was pretty painful and I spent the day in a bit of a haze, not really doing much at all.
Last night after a day guzzling painkillers, I slept really well, only one incident at around midnight where I had some kind of spasm in the altered thumb. Now that did hurt, but as soon as it stopped I was able to get back to sleep and stay that way until 10 this morning.
Currently, I have a big splint and heavy bandaging and all is quite comfortable - so much so that I have not needed to take any pain relief at all today.Looking good then.
Current Pain Rating: 4
Well, I'm bet your glad that's done.
ReplyDeleteI was gonna ask all sorts of dumb questions about convalescence etc. but as I can't even spell it - I'll wait for you to tell us about it.
For a one-handed man you shame me with your blogging and photography.
I must try harder.
Did they do exactly as per the video?
You now have no joint in your thumb?