Episode 3 - Pre-Operation thoughts

I've done quite a bit of literature searches on the Internet, but some of the forums which I read were rather negative. Some of the depressing comments includes: "don't jump into it", "seriously should reconsider", "success rate has been hyped up", "think twice", "the results are not positive", "the recovery is extremely slow", "don't be a guinea pig", etc. But someone posted that most of the people who have successfully undergone the procedures would have carried on with their lives and only a small group of unhappy individuals would bother to post in forums. One colleague did introduce someone who had a similar knee problem. I managed to talk to him a few times and felt much more reassured and positive about the operation, which he successfully underwent 3 years ago. He has improved so much that he has resumed his soccer games, took part in vertical run and even running the marathon , albeit slower! I really need to thank him - Mr Lau WC, for willingly sharing his experience with me and giving me much needed tips from his experience.




28 May 07, Mon. D-2, two days before the operation.

Had a slight stuffy nose, sore throat and frequent sneezing since Sunday. Hope the cold will not delay the operation. Cleared up outstanding works in the office, handed over important items to my deputy and activated the out-of-office notification in the email system. Programmed telephone voicemail to inform callers of my absence and to redirect all my calls to my deputy. Gave last minute instructions to staff and confided to some friends and colleagues that though mentally prepared, I still have butterflies in the stomach. Despite putting up a brave front, I’m actually quite scared. I hardly fall sick and except for some eye problems previously, I’ve never had any major operation before. I’ve been exercising both legs and taking supplements such as Vitamin C (1000mg), multi-vitamins and minerals, iron, zinc, ginseng, gingko, chicken essence, etc, to fortify the body prior to the actual operation. These supplements probably won't strengthen the body, but at least it should ensure that there would not be any deficiencies.

29 May 07, Tue. D-1, day before the operation, admission to NUH.

Packed my belonging, anticipating a short stay in the hospital. Continued my workout session before going to NUH, accompanied by my wife. Waited a very long time for admission as there was no suitable vacant Class A room yet. Patient Service Officer gave us some “Kopi Tiam” vouchers and asked us to have our tea break first, thought it was a nice gesture - had a big bowl of banana split ice-cream. Finally, was admitted to a temporary ward, Ward 88 Bed 14 (single room but considered Class B as it had no facilities). I don't really mind as I thought my stay would be short and I would be bedridden to be able to enjoy any facilities anyway. My Prof came in to check on me and commented how bare the room looked. He took a permanent marker pen and marked the affected leg with an arrow and a smiley – “to be absolutely sure the right leg is opened up”, he grinned. He illustrated how the incisions would be made on my knee. Later, went through routine examinations, such as, chest x-ray, ECG, temperature/BP measurements, etc. A young doctor came in late at night to draw out some blood for tests and to put on the sodium chloride NaCl drip. My earlier sniffly and sneezy nose finally cleared up @night.