Percutaneous adductor tendon release.

 

 

 

Above: Operation site 24 hours after the percutaneous procedure performed on the 4th of June, 2013.

 

Due for review with orthopaedic surgeon on the 19th of June, 2013 to allow for healing and time for surgeon to consult with a world leading cerebral palsy expert regarding the outcome of the percutaneous tendon release and examination under anaesthesia. Expert or not he or she has not even met Robbie, let alone examined him. Note all those with cerebral palsy present differently so Robbie and I do not know the rational of consulting with a surgeon who has not examined a patient personally.

 

Groin area only slightly more mobile and accessible. Not that Robbie and I held any high hopes; that was why Robbie originally refused the procedure and sought a second opinion from a world leading orthopaedic surgeon as he knew a partial tendon release in the groin area was not going to make any difference regarding being able to sleep on and sit up in a bed. The procedure was mostly experimental and exploratory and the performing surgeon told Robbie that he was only interested in making his groin area more accessible for hygiene reasons and no other. Robbie had little choice. Without the procedure no other surgeries will be considered.

 

We wouldn't mind jumping through unnecessary time consuming hoops complements of a public medical machine spinning red tape set up by a handful of controlling doctors if my health was good and Robbie's spine was not fusing from physical inactivity. Excruciating back pain is now the result when he tries to lay flat. Something he or I do not need on top of the already painful contractures he has suffered since the age of 12. Irreversible spinal fusion that will worsen the longer the recommended double amputation just above the knees by a respected world leading orthopaedic surgeon is delayed. A surgeon who thoroughly examined Robbie physically and held a long conversation with Robbie to confirm why - and for how long - he has desired to have the removal of his legs that Robbie knows will allow him to gain mobility and some time out from being confined permanently to his wheelchair. Time to move around with a modified walking frame (even if it means shuffling on his butt); roll around on the floor with his companion dogs. And ultimately - at the age of 40 - see his dream reached of again being able to sleep in a bed.