WHY HAVE IT DONE ?
When a joint has been in use, sensibly and otherwise, for more than 70 years, it can suffer "fair wear and tear". More than forty years ago, in getting up from a gymnasium floor, part of the left knee cartilage was nipped off and left floating in the joint. A 4cm. external incision (no "keyhole surgery" then !) allowed the offending piece to be removed, but with the promise of "problems in the future".
Thus, with David still attempting to demonstrate throwing techniques, knee pain and swelling became more frequent. In 2008, with the cancellation of the Tri-Rigger competition, there arose the time-gap needed to get something done.
Visits to surgeon, x-rays, withdrawals from the bank (!), and "No food or drink from midnight !" preceded the operation. The actual technique to get access resulted in splitting the quadriceps tendon through the kneecap. The benefit of this is that there is little if any damage to the muscle tissue. The removal of the bone-ends of femur and tibia and replacement with articulating artificial shapes was the essential part of the operation.
AND THEN WHAT ?
By Jan. 13th., the physio department had induced straightness and almost 90 degree flexibility, three days of moving on a large "baby-walker", two days on two crutches including going up and down stairs, and David was ready to rehabilitate. The considerable swelling will apparently stay for three or four months. Flexibility exercises must be maintained, and plenty of walking done. Eventually, two crutches will not be needed and support will be down to a stick or nothing. The main purpose is to have the person walking as normally as possible, without a limp. (Long term, the purpose is to have no pain and reasonable mobility.)
BACK TO TARAWA !
By Jan. 29, David is due back in Tarawa. His teaching job is due to re-commence on Feb. 03. We hope the rigours of teaching are not too demanding !
Last Modified on 18/05/2009 11:11