Before her surgery, Patricia Greet's life had become increasingly restricted by pain.
"I could not walk more than five to ten minutes without experiencing severe pain," she explains. "I was in constant pain in my lower back and left buttock and leg. Sleeping was difficult and life became very restrictive."
A retired Executive Assistant who spent 24 years working for a law firm, Tricia enjoys reading, winter walks on the beach with her dog, being a school governor and travelling. However, her spinal condition had begun to take away much of the independence she valued.
A long journey to a diagnosis
Tricia's journey began after being referred by her GP to the Musculoskeletal Clinic at Treliske, where she met Lucy Godwin.
"She told me I had spinal stenosis. I had a follow-up MRI and was then referred to neurosurgery in Derriford."
After experiencing delays and a lengthy referral process, Tricia eventually met Consultant Spinal Surgeon Mr Khan.
"It was such a different experience. We discussed the possibility of having the procedure carried out privately and this was the option we went for, as I could have the operation at Duchy Hospital in Truro, near where I live."
Finding hope again
After years of pain and relying on a walking stick, Tricia says her consultation with Mr Khan gave her confidence to move forward with treatment.
"I decided to proceed with the surgery after discussing it with Mr Khan, who most certainly gave me hope that I could resume a fairly normal lifestyle again."
Tricia also chose Duchy Hospital because of a previous positive experience.
"I had a hip replacement carried out at Duchy Hospital in 2022, so I knew I would be very well looked after. I had also looked at the hospital's spinal consultants and Mr Khan seemed the best for my needs."
First-class care
From her first visit to Duchy Hospital, Tricia felt reassured. "My experience at Duchy Hospital was first class. From the moment you walk in, everyone is welcoming and helpful." She particularly remembers the support she received from the team throughout her treatment.
"The nurses I met during my pre-op assessment and from the moment I arrived for my procedure were amazing and very caring. They kept me informed at every step and the care following my procedure was first class."
Her experience with Mr Khan and the anaesthetist also helped ease any concerns she may have had.
"Mr Khan made me feel at ease right away and I can honestly say I wasn't nervous on the day of the procedure at all. The anaesthetist was amazing. I suffer badly from sickness after anaesthetic, and he made sure I wasn't sick at all."
A life-changing result
Mr Khan performed Tricia's procedure using a keyhole technique. "My scar is now very faint and small," says Tricia. "I find the whole procedure fascinating and would very much like to see it being done."
Most importantly, the surgery has made a significant difference to her quality of life. "So much difference. I can walk for more than five minutes, I am more upright and I have little to no pain. Life is so much better."
With a new sense of freedom, Tricia is already looking ahead. "I can't wait to book a holiday next year."
Tricia's advice
When asked what she would say to others considering treatment, her answer is simple: "My advice would be to do it. Meet with Mr Khan and discuss how he may help you. I can honestly say it was the best thing I ever did."
