Doctor Visit

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Our visit to the orthopedist was different than expected. We had thought we'd come out of there with a date for surgery and advice that it was better that way. However, the doctor said that, although surgery was an option, it was not something he recommended unless the broken bones were protruding or if they were in such a position that successful mending would be too difficult or impossible.

Instead, he said that the broken bones looked "beautiful" for their condition and that the risks of surgery far outweighed the benefits, of which there were few. To open him up, exposing him to infection, cut the bone and cut off blood supply to areas which desperately need it, and screw in a plate which may fail at a later date was just not worth it. His clavicle is positioned well for healing and Michael got a brace of sorts that keeps his shoulders gently pulled back. He pairs that with his sling which further neutralizes his arm. He wore both all day today and has noticed a significant improvement in his overall comfort.

We'll be picking up a wheelchair some time tomorrow or Thursday if all goes as planned. Also, I have an appointment at the DMV next week to get the temporary disabled placard. That will be very handy for his future doctor visits and for getting him out of the house so he doesn't go stir crazy.

It will be 4-6 weeks before his shoulder is well enough to use crutches and about 2 months before he can even think of putting any sort of weight on that right leg.

Are we surprised, though, that Michael asked the doctor if he could ride a stationary bike in the meantime? And are we surprised when the doctor paused, looked at him wryly and said, "Yeah, I don't think so."