"Waiting for total hip replacement"

In Scotland, following GP referral to X-ray and physiotherapy and an orthopaedic consultant the wait was a few months.  At this appointment, which was with a very competent Specialist Physiotherapist, I was advised that total hip replacement was necessary and the wait would be 12 to 18 months.  Not really what I waned to hear.

The following year was very painful despite excellent consultations with my GP, pain relief and nerve damage medication.  The worst pain of all.  My life and activites  has gradually become smaller from walking miles and over hills to walking a short distance with a walking stick to shops and only coffee with friends.  I am unable to enjoy travelling and a walk with friends. Sitting, standing and walking all adversely painfully affected.  Thankfully I am not a depressive person although on the verge at times trying to keep myself afloat!   After 1 year I received referral to an active surgical surveillance clinic.  A wonderful surprise!  Although 38 miles away this was a good consultation but a bit overdue.  I understand this is a new service which I am sure will improve the waiting in time. Nevertheless, I was pleased that a pre-op assessment appointment was received but for 3 months in the future.  Sadly, a few months has gone by with a lot more pain. 

The pre-op assessment was very impressive, thorough and a slick set-up at the Orthopaedic department.  ECG, an impressive Nurse-led in-depth thorough assessment and examination (a health issue identified), a Pharmacist assessment then meeting with the anaesthetist.  A further test is scheduled prior to discussions about surgery.  Thankfully I am nearer hopefully surgery and getting a fuller life back in time. I so feel in good hands with Orthopaedics at this hospital where I have been treated before.  But it has been a very long wait and a hard couple of years out of life for an otherwise healthy older retired person. I am aware that COVID19 was disastrous for waiting lists. Given that my other hip may require surgery, I fear a long painful wait again but hope not.