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Mr George Spink 2023-12-02 Person 5 5 0

It took me twenty years of pain and one year of deliberation to make a decision on having PLIF surgery, largely because I understood that my sciatica was not life-threatening and opting for this procedure would be a lifestyle choice not without its risks. Mr Spink was very careful to point this out to me and to recommend that I take some time to make sure this was what I wanted before I made my decision. All the risks, and potential limitations of complete success were explained fully and patiently and Mr Spink always made me feel that I was in control of the situation. Once the decision was made, the process was smooth, efficient and timely. I knew I was in good hands and the rest of his team clearly knew that too. All staff involved were friendly, knowledgeable and confident which made me feel very positive. Mr Spink comes into his own in theatre, and I only wish I could have been awake long enough to appreciate it fully! I was kept warm and comfortable before surgery, I even got to choose my own music (Harry Styles was most uplifting!) That was six weeks ago now. The surgery was a complete success - I have NO sciatic pain! I am taking no pain relief medication. Aftercare has been excellent. I was walking the following morning, physiotherapy began immediately, clips came out after one week, walking 3-5 miles daily and dancing around the house after one week, swimming after five weeks - what could be better? I went into the operation feeling very strong and fit despite the sciatic pain. Since the operation I have been building that back up gradually but I honestly feel like I could go back onto the squash court any day, though both Mr Spink and my physiotherapist are reigning in my enthusiasm on that one. It is true that now I wish I had done this years ago, but I believe I was right in trying every alternative first, after all it is a bold step to take. The years of managing the pain, and doing my utmost to be as fit as possible to help with that, has had its benefits (unfortunately the steroid injections, nerve blockers, traction, acupuncture and endless trips to various physiotherapists have not!). Mr Spink is expecting to never see me again, we are both confident with what he has achieved. However, his reassurance also included a quick route back to him if it should ever be needed. He says he would have done this surgery on me in 10 or more years time when I am old, had I needed to deliberate for longer. At seventy, he counts me as young, that's a stretch in anybody's view, though I certainly feel that I am now! I have had an active busy working and family life and now I have a busy, active and fulfilling life in retirement. Thank you Mr Spink!