Hi Jane
Down here in the South, my experience has been as follows:
Five surgeries (fusions) to my feet, all done by Consultant Orthopaedic surgeons, referred by Rheumatologist. Each has been followed up once or twice after being well out of plaster (sometimes 5 months), but then when healed, I have been discharged from the clinic. Then when requiring further surgery, I am re-referred as a 'new' patient to the same surgeon(but an old friend!)
My shoulder problems have been referred out of area as several surgeries have proved problematic, so beyond the remit of local hospital. These appointments are ongoing over the years.
My neck surgeries follow the same pattern as the shoulders. They will always constantly need review and monitoring and further procedures and surgeries onthe cards.
Main thing is that you are kept with your rheumy and he/she makes regular checkups. They have close links with the Orthos and some even have joint clinics (excuse the pun
).
I was told that the Orthos get paid for each new referral - maybe the reason for discharge and re-referral?
Do hope that some of the replies have helped a little.
Take good care,
Lizx
