Last Monday (7th August 2023), I meet with my Plastics Consultant/Surgeon for the first time at Salisbury District Hospital, to discuss my CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) knee being amputated. I went with a very close friend of mine, we must have known each other for about 20 plus years now.
My Consultant was really lovely, understanding of my situation, very knowledgeable about my syndrome (which was like a breath of fresh air), has hand many CRPS warriors before me and I'm sure he will have plenty after me. He wasn't like a 'normal' consultant as he listened to me and understood the impact CRPS is having on my life... understanding that I am just existing and not living!
We have lots of hoops to jump/hop through before we get to the point of surgery. He didn't have any of my medical records or imaging relating to my CRPS. So that's been my first job, to collate all my records from all the different departments I have been through and get them sent over to him. Simple right as all the records are at the same hospital... but nope! Been chasing around for my records from every department. I think extracting teeth or a flare up of my CRPS would be less painful at the moment . Also have had to request all of my GP medical records as well... tick, tick, tick, requests completed!
I have to also lose some weight, which I had already decided I wanted to do before my consultation. My consultant wants me to find my rugby, running thigh muscles again in the gym, swimming or running; as my prosthetic will fit better and my stump will heal better due to the extra blood flow. My GP is prescribing me a weight loss programme and a fitness programme for my gym, etc. As my GP said at least you will have a letter to show anyone who challenges you for working out that you are meant to be as part of your pre-op schedule and doing so under the instructions of your consultant. This means you will have the evidence to show my nosey, interfering neighbours where to stick their noses!
My consultant is referring me to several departments within Salisbury. Firstly, the pain clinic, as the usual Anaesthetist is one of the specialists within the clinic. During this consultation, we will be reviewing the pain medications I am on currently, and discuss and formulate a postoperative pain relief pain.
My consultant has also referred me to the Psychology department and Rehab team at Salisbury. The Psychology department is to ensure that everything is in place and I have all the information required to make the best decision for me. The Rehab team... so that we can ensure all appropriate plans are in place, especially for being discharged and learning to walk again.
Overall, it was a very positive, informative and realistic meeting. I'll be seeing my consultation again, after I have been through all the departments he has referred me to within Salisbury District Hospital.
It's going to be a marathon and not a sprint!
