Released

I had my last visit at the orthopedic surgeon's office on Friday. Unless I have some sort of problem, I need not visit again. 

After being taken into an exam room, the next thing that happens is that an x-ray tech arrives to take me to the x-ray room. I enjoy stopping in for an x-ray because one of the technicians always decorates the room for the season. The last time I visited the room was decked out for the Chinese New Year. As you can see, the x-ray department is ready for spring (as are many, many of my friends living in the snow zone!)

The ceiling even has butterflies all over! 

The PA checked out my latest x-ray. Everything is where it is supposed to be. He showed me the initial x-ray and explained that the white areas indicate arthritis. There was a ton of arthritic material surrounding the base of the thumb joint. There was a bone chip, extra bone growth in other areas and there was no cartilage. The surgeon removed the trapezium and cleaned up yucky stuff around the base of the thumb. I have full mobility of my thumb, amazingly! Instead of the trapezium there is now tendon that forms some sort of hammock, or support for the thumb. All is well. My left thumb is also a candidate for surgery. I do experience pain from it, but it isn't as bad as my right hand was, and it isn't my dominant hand, so I'll let it be for now. 

At least I know of an orthopedic surgeon that apparently did a great job, and I know they have a welcoming x-ray department. What more could a gal ask for?!!!