In January 2022, I tripped on an uneven sidewalk causing a closed fracture of my left tibia and fibula and Type I or II open fracture of left tibia and fibula. I did not realize the affect this injury would have on my family and I. I went to the hospital and they immediately told me I needed surgery as soon as possible. Right after my first surgery I was told they were only able to operate on my tibia due to severe swelling on my fibula. After the surgery I was not allowed to bear any weight and used crutches to get around. I also had a wound vac that connected to my leg that helped with the healing. About two weeks later I received my second operation on the fibula. I remained non-weight-bearing for about 3 months. Within the months after the second surgery I was put into a boot instead of a splint cast which was much more comfortable since you can take it on and off. Then I was able to start physical therapy and focus on getting back to my daily activities. I later received two more operations to remove some of the hardware that was put in during my first two surgeries.
At many points I was hopeless and thought that I would never be able to walk again or be able to go into work, but with the help of Dr. Behrens and Meagan I was able to live my life again within months after this terrible injury. They were always so supportive and helpful with anything I needed. I wouldn’t choose anyone else to have been my providers throughout this entire process.
Lastly, I would like to thank all the nurses and doctors at HSS and NYP who helped me with every doctors appointment and every surgery, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without you all. And a HUGE thank you to my family and friends for helping me throughout every single step of this.
HSS Providers
Steve B. Behrens, MD
Foot and Ankle, Sports Medicine, and Trauma Surgeon
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