With LP-ESP prosthesis to the Ironman
At the end of November 2023, severe pain suddenly appeared in my lower back. The constant pain lasted for a total of seven months.
My orthopedist then recommended the spine specialist Dr. Desai at the Sana Trinity Hospital in Cologne to discuss the option of a disc replacement. I also informed myself through posts on internet forums, YouTube videos, and various studies.
Despite various treatments such as PRT injections, massages, and hospital stays, no one could provide me with lasting relief. The pain was a severe burden, both physically and mentally. After six months, my orthopedist in Krefeld referred me to Dr. Desai in Cologne and finally found the right doctor.
Dr. Desai impressed me with his expertise, empathy, and trusting manner of speaking with me. He truly listened to me and asked the right questions, which reinforced my feeling that I was in the right hands with him. Because I'm always physically active, Dr. Desai recommended surgery with the LP-ESP prosthesis to maintain my mobility as best as possible.
His trusting manner of speaking with me, his expertise, and the studies on artificial discs strengthened my decision to have the ESP surgery on L5/S1 with Dr. Desai.
Before the surgery, I had a detailed preliminary consultation in which everything was explained to me in detail and all my questions were answered. The surgery was very successful and without complications. Dr. Desai and his team worked with extreme precision, allowing the procedure to be performed as planned. After the surgery, I had to wear a brace for four weeks to support the healing process. The inpatient stay was pleasant, and the nursing staff was very attentive and supportive. Pain and discomfort after the surgery were limited and well-managed. Overall, I felt very well cared for.
The rest of the postoperative course was very good. I recovered gradually and was able to significantly improve my mobility. As mentioned above, I had to wear a brace for four weeks after the surgery to support the healing process. After eight weeks, I had an X-ray to check that the prosthesis was fitting correctly. The pain in my lower back and leg noticeably decreased, and I already noticed a significant improvement in my daily life. I was very optimistic that this improvement would continue and felt significantly better overall than before the procedure. Just two months later, I was completely pain-free and, after four months, I was able to swim, ride a bike, and run again. My quality of life improved significantly as a result.
I felt very well cared for and looked after throughout the entire treatment process. Both Dr. Desai and his entire team took time to address my questions and concerns and always made me feel like I was in good hands. The care before and after the surgery was very professional, but also humane and empathetic, which was particularly helpful during this difficult phase.
I would have this surgery performed again with Dr. Desai at any time. I felt in excellent hands, and the result completely met my expectations. I hope, of course, that it won't be necessary again in the future.
I was particularly impressed that after just one year, I was even able to successfully complete the IRONMAN in Nice.
The IRONMAN is a triathlon consisting of a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and then a 42.2 km marathon. Completing an IRONMAN with a disc prosthesis is a special achievement and a great personal success for me.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Desai. Thanks to his professional expertise, empathy, and dedicated care, I survived the surgery well and significantly regained my quality of life. Without him, this successful journey would not have been possible.
Thank you very much!