While practicing orthopedic surgery I enjoyed excellent health except for a troublesome right knee. I had injured my knee playing football in college however had remained active, running marathons and playing polo. As the years passed the knee condition worsened and I finally met the criteria for a total knee replacement. What would it be like on the other side of the knife as a recipient of a total knee replacement, an operation I had performed many times? I even thought of having regional anesthesia so I could direct the surgery, how ridiculous. Recalling complications I had managed as a joint replacement surgeon, I knew serious problems in total knee replacement are rare, however, it is a major operation and one can anticipate pain and discomfort.

I asked myself why did I run those marathons and play polo? If I had lived a more sedentary life perhaps I could have avoided this surgical procedure and its inherent risk. Nevertheless, I prepared for surgery. I wanted to influence as much of the environment as possible, to include selecting the right hospital, the right surgeon, the appropriate anesthesia and the right support group subsequent to the surgery. I wanted to maintain a sense of control.

What kind of image would I reflect as a patient, would I be a good example? How would I handle pain and suffering? Did I dare to complain? How would I manage the anxiety? Would I have a private room and isolate myself or join the crowd? Could I monitor my own post-operative course?

I chose a surgeon who was well trained. He was cool, well informed and experienced. He performed a successful operation and all went well. The afternoon of the surgery in attempting to get out of bed, I was overwhelmed. I felt a sense of brokenness; I could not be a doctor in this situation. I finally submitted myself to the circumstances. I finally resolved to be "the patient".

The following day I was up and about and feeling quite well. I went through my therapy quickly and soon was on my way home. Approximately a week after I got home I began to experience dysentery, which was diagnosed as antibiotic induced colitis. Finally the diarrhea subsided but only after significant weight loss, and curtailed activities which limited my physical therapy. I had encountered a complication which was unexpected and again I felt overwhelmed, frail and broken. After two months, I finally was able to return to my practice. For me it was easier to be a doctor than a patient. I certainly have more empathy now.

The following are the lessons I learned on the other side of the knife.
Here are my recommendations and conclusions:

1. Choose the right doctorHe or she needs to be one with a strong personality who will remain in control. Remember friendship can compromise judgment.
2. Be a good patientFrom my standpoint a good patient is one who is informed, affable, optimistic, compliant, appreciative and stoic.
3. Choose the right environment/hospitalThe doctor you choose needs a good hospital environment supported by good consultants which enhance patient care.
4. Develop a support systemYou need a caregiver, however, try to do as much for yourself as you can, be sensitive to the requests you are making, and remain grateful.
5. Attitude Maintain an optimistic overviewDespite the potential for complications, the patient's positive attitude creates an atmosphere for healing. The resolve to remain calm in the face of adversity is learned in your medical training.

Conclusion

1. It is difficult for a doctor to be a patient.
2. If infirmed, I suggest the above as a guide for the experience.
3. May you live to 100 and die in your sleep.