Complications

We have made the most of our time in New England post-injury. Pete’s left knee remained immobilized, elevated, iced often, and he continued minding doctor’s orders. Pete was an excellent back seat navigator! We’ve been in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, VT… (not in that order…) plus the two days in Canada. We drove back roads and “Blue Highways.” Each town had it’s own unique culture, and all were full of charm and history. 

We returned to the Treacy compound on the afternoon of July 10, one day before Pete’s scheduled post-op appointment. Pete was not feeling well, and had no appetite for the special “farewell dinner” prepared by Helen and family. In fact, in retrospect, he had not been feeling well for a couple of days, but we didn’t pinpoint the cause until (against doctor’s orders) I unwrapped his immobilizer and dressings to inspect his left knee. It was red and hot to the touch, and his temperature was elevated. We called the surgeon who suggested we meet the Orthopedic Physician Assistant Specialist in the Emergency Department, so off we went. 

Our Tuesday evening was quite different from Pete’s first visit to Hartford Hospital. It was an unusually busy night. We spent 5 hours in Triage, in a wheelchair, in the hall (without any pain medication), before connecting with “Carl,” the PA, who recommended joint aspiration, IV antibiotics and admission to the hospital. We were roomed at 3:30 am. The room was spacious with a guest couch and recliner. (This new wing opened only two months ago.) We both got about 2 hours of sleep before the usual routine of care which, unfortunately, includes very little rest for the patient. 

Pete’s surgeon, Dr. O’Connor, inspected the surgical site around 2:00 pm. He would have preferred to avoid another procedure, but at this point it was time to get more aggressive. We prepared for surgery on Thursday, 7/12, to reopen the surgical site, irrigate the infected area, (eliminating any bacteria) and close the knee with a passive suction drain. (At Dr. O’Connor’s request, there is now an Infectious Disease Specialist consulting on Pete’s care. This is to ensure Pete gets the right antibiotic therapy for whatever is causing this infection.)

The procedure went well, however; the next few days were a bit challenging. Pete had normal post-op pain, stubborn intermittent fevers, trouble keeping an IV in because of significant sweating, and he struggled with narcotic-induced constipation. With all of this, he was receiving compassionate care from the professional staff at the Bone and Joint Institute of Hartford Hospital. He was fitted with the hinged leg brace (in a fixed position until allowed to bend his knee) and initiated his physical therapy. 

Pete remains cheerful (except for those first 24 hours), throwing out comedic zingers that make the staff laugh as well as ensuring that we keep this chapter in perspective. We are supported by local family and in spirit by so many at a distance. We get strength from your prayers. In fact, today, Pete’s sister Rosemary forwarded a page from her daily devotional that hit the nail on the head. An excerpt from today’s devotion reads,

“Instead of fussing and fuming when your plans are thwarted, wait patiently for Me to act…I always respond to your prayers in the best way.” – Psalm 37:7

We hope Pete will be discharged from this fine hospital early next week. I don’t know yet if we will keep our existing transportation arrangements. All will be revealed soon, according to His plan.