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?!!!
Ironic. I am having trouble with my left thumb (on the top) where it meets my hand. Just figured out what is going on and will have to see how it goes. Sounds similar in many ways. Hopefully you will now be able to have good movement and no pain. Lori
ReplyDeleteFrom conversations with many of my friends, arthritis in that area is very common. The procedure I had was called an carpometacarpal arthroplasty. You can also get injections that gave me relief for a while. Good luck.
DeleteWhat good news and am glad to know there are options when the base of one's thumb (or thumbs) starts hurting and acting ugly. I've had a tad of that hinting there may be trouble ahead.
ReplyDeleteWhen I worked ER, we wore Hallmark seasonal pins with our IDs. Still have the pins!
Hugs!
Good news for you!! Nice to be done
ReplyDeleteYes! No more appointments at that office!!!
DeleteI'm glad the surgery was successful and you don't have to deal with more medical stuff for a bit! The person(s) decorating that room are doing a bit extra, aren't they? Love it!
ReplyDelete