Uncle Barney Updates

[Sharon Brunelle]

Hello Brunelle Cousins!

Please update me on your Dad's recovery when you have the time.

Thank You,

Sharon

[John Brunelle]

New Hipster Report: Dad had successful hip replacement surgery on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Saint Alphonsus Hospital. He was released and sent home on Friday, Nov. 18, much to the chagrin of Bev. His quick dismissal from the hospital was due in part to his quick recovery and the fact that he walked to his in-patient PT class rather than wheelchairing it like the other hip patients. He has been homebound for the past weeks with his wife and loyal servant, popping norco and watching ESPN and MSNBC (Barney, not Bev). He gets consistent care from daughter-in-law Betsey, RN; daughter-in-law JoJo, PT; and daughter Therese, APh (Amateur Pharmacist). In addition to the exercises he received with this discharge orders (quad sets, toe curls, calf raises) he does laps around the house, indoors, pushing the walker. Today was his first trip outside the house, I took him to his followup appointment. Xrays, redress of the incision, and a coaching session with the Doc who assisted the surgery was all good. Orders are to walk more around the house and let pain and fatigue be the guide. Next doc appointment is Jan. 3, 2011.
This photo shows the titanium and polyethylene pieces they use for hip replacement (ball, socket, and shank).

You will see some addition parts in Barney's X-ray: screws to keep the socket in place, and a cable to support the bone at the point of entry for the new shank (which looks a lot like my missing tent stake). Doc referred to these extra measures as a "belt and suspenders approach" to make sure everything stays in place during the healing process.

That's what I think I know. Barney should be recovered and ready to kick field goals in time for Boise State's bowl game, if he's called upon to do so.