I 68 years old and a cabinet maker, I amputated my thumb in a workshop accident in January 2017. I was immediately taken to St Georges, where, about three hours later, Ms Cerovac and her team commenced replanting my thumb. The care I received in all departments at St George’s was exemplary both during my stay and since in after care. I feel that the care and attention given to me greatly enhanced my positive attitude towards recovery. I started back to work in a small way within weeks and now I am operating full time as normal, and while working I rarely notice that I have damaged my thumb. Just recently I have begun to be able to fasten my shoelaces and shirt buttons. I am also able to play my Northumberland smallpipes, much to the disappointment of my family. I am extremely grateful to have had my thumb re attached and eternally grateful to Ms Cerovac for agreeing to do it.

I was listed for Surgery a year after conservative management following a Martial Arts injury failed to resolve my symptoms. The symptoms that I had experienced was a feeling of instability and reduced confidence at using my wrist. These symptoms were worse when trying to complete my job as a respiratory physiotherapist, where my hand and upper limb function is key.

The experience of Miss Cerovac pre operatively was great and gave a very realistic view of surgery, and potentially its inability to resolve symptoms.
My expectations were related to increased stability and confidence in using my hand, with a potential loss of range as a consequence.

When waking from the operation to find a keyhole approach was extended to an open procedure, Initially pain was the main symptom, but still able to move which I started straight away ( with my job in mind).

First few weeks was tough, getting sleeves on and sleeping, which was uncomfortable.
When I started Hand therapy, the improvements came thick and fast, and I regained my range of movement and subsequent strength over the next 4-6 months, returning to full clinical duties on 13th August as planned. The only symptom, which is minor, is occasional lack of proprioception, but this is improving.

The overall result is 100 % improvement in my initial symptoms, with no reduction in range of movement and full return to work and sport.

I would like to pass on my thanks to Miss Cerovac and her team for the best surgical result and complete improvement to my symptoms.