Patient Stories, Thumb Arthritis

Developing Thumb Pain and Seeking Initial Treatment

My name is Charlene, and I live in Letterkenny, Donegal. About three years ago, I began developing pain in my left thumb. It gradually worsened, so I consulted an orthopaedic specialist who trialled cortisone injections in my thumb. However, the relief only lasted about three months, and the pain returned.

Worsening Symptoms and Diagnosis

I soon realized I was losing strength in my hand, started dropping items, and developed a hard lump of bone in my thumb. I tried a couple of splints, which provided brief relief, but eventually, I went back to the consultant. He recommended an MRI, suspecting arthritis in my thumb.

Facing Long Wait Times and High Costs

After the MRI, the consultant confirmed that I needed major surgery—essentially a thumb replacement, similar to a knee replacement. In January 2022, he referred me to the HSE Orthopaedic Department. I was informed that I could wait a couple of years for an appointment, as the HSE does not have a hand surgeon. A private hand surgeon in Galway quoted me €15,000 for the surgery. My doctor arranged for a custom cast to keep my thumb in place, as it was dislocating several times a day, which allowed me to continue working. However, the cast eventually became ineffective.

Discovering Surgery Now Through the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive

On St. Stephen’s Day 2022, I researched the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive to learn more about it. Due to the algorithm, Surgery Now appeared on Facebook. In pain and with nothing to lose, I contacted them. Later that day, I received a call from one of the team members, who explained how their service worked and what paperwork they needed from me. They emailed me a form to have signed by my GP, and I sent them my MRI report.

Planning and Scheduling the Surgery

Shortly after, another team member called to explain how the appointments and surgery would work, including how to book the hotel. I was able to choose my surgery date and, due to work commitments, decided on April 2023. The team informed me in advance of how much the HSE would cover for the surgery and consultation. The surgery cost €5,000, and the HSE covered €4,907.

I booked my surgery through the very friendly admin team. I provided them with my flight details and informed them of my chosen hotel. Surgery Now had arrangements with a few hotels that offered discounted rates for patients. They stayed in regular contact with me leading up to the surgery.

Arriving in Spain and Pre-Operative Procedures

When the day arrived, I flew to Spain for the surgery. I was picked up, along with other patients, and dropped off at my hotel. The hospital I chose was across the street from the hotel. The evening we arrived, I received a text informing me to fast from 10 PM that night for blood tests the following morning.

Early Monday morning, we were collected for our first appointments: an ECG, chest and hand X-rays, and blood tests. All of this was completed in about 20 minutes, and I received my results through an app we had to download after signing the hospital paperwork. A team member who spoke Spanish accompanied us to all our appointments in case there was something we didn’t understand.

Meeting the Surgical Team

Afterward, I returned to the hotel for breakfast and was collected again to meet my orthopaedic surgeon. He reviewed my MRI again and discussed possible surgery options with me. I made my decision, signed the consent forms, and later met the anaesthesia team to review my test results and approve the surgery.

Undergoing the Surgery

The next morning, I was admitted for my operation. I had a private room and woke up pain-free, thanks to a nerve block administered by the surgeon. I spent one night in the hospital and was discharged the following morning. I was picked up, taken to the pharmacy to collect my medication, and attended the hospital’s A&E a few times to check my wound. After a week, the surgeon signed a Fit-to-Fly certificate for me. I could have stayed to do physiotherapy at the hospital but chose to return home for that.

Recovery and Relaxation in Spain

I stayed a few extra days to relax and enjoy the sun. On the day of my return flight, I was picked up and taken to the airport, where a wheelchair was arranged so I didn’t have to carry anything.

Post-Operative Care Back Home

Back home, my GP removed my sutures and was impressed by the neatness of the scar. Two weeks later, the brace came off, and I began physiotherapy. The exercises were simple, and I quickly regained full function in my hand. Though the expected recovery time was 12 weeks, I recovered much faster.

Reflecting on the Journey and Outcome

A month ago, I received a call from the HSE asking if I still wanted to be on the waiting list—almost two years after my initial referral. I honestly don’t know what my quality of life would be like if I hadn’t gone through Surgery Now. I work in a very busy administrative office and now have no pain at all. The scar is barely visible.

About 12 weeks after my operation, I received reimbursement from the HSE for my surgery, covering the exact amount I was informed about.

Gratitude and Recommendation

I cannot thank the team enough for everything they’ve done, from connecting me with such a brilliant surgeon to providing constant support. They’ve truly changed my life for the better. Should I ever be in a similar situation, they will be my first call. I highly recommend their service.

Best regards,

Charlene