Rob Bartlett – Knee Arthroscopy

Robert Bartlett KIMS Hospital patient story
With a torn meniscus and an active job that required Rob to walk a hefty ten miles a day, the pain in Rob’s knee became so debilitating that he had to resign from his job and seek treatment. Rob shares his story about making the decision to undergo knee arthroscopy surgery with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Chan Jeer. Enquiries & appointments
Robert Bartlett KIMS Hospital patient story
In one word, I would describe my experience at KIMS Hospital as seamless...The hospital itself was such a peaceful and tranquil environment. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I felt at ease and totally relaxed.
Orthopaedic surgery

Deciding to get treatment

In May 2018, Rob was diagnosed with tendonitis by his local GP when in fact an MRI scan much later that year revealed that he was in fact suffering with a torn meniscus.

Rob’s physically demanding job as Clerk of Works meant that he had to walk around ten miles every day inspecting construction sites across Mayfair and Belgravia in London, many of which required him to negotiate scaffolding, sometimes over eight stories in height. On top of that, a daily five-hour commute meant that eventually Rob had no choice but to resign from his job of five and a half years. “By trade I’m a carpenter and joiner, I have a real passion for old building techniques so having to give up my job was a very difficult decision”.

The KIMS Hospital experience

Within two months of his initial consultation, Rob was operated on by Mr. Jeer.

“In one word, I would describe my experience at KIMS Hospital as seamless.

I was treated with such courtesy and care throughout my stay at the hospital. It was evident from the start that effective systems were in place and performed consistently by every member of staff to ensure patient safety and comfort at all times. Checks to ensure I was the right patient having the correct procedure were carried out on at least six occasions that I can recall.

The hospital itself was such a peaceful and tranquil environment. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I felt at ease and totally relaxed.

I was greeted by both reception staff and the porters who showed me to my room. The staff all had an air of calm about them, reducing any anxiety a patient naturally feels before any procedure. I must also say how spotlessly clean the environment was too. The free car park was also an added bonus!”

After the knee arthroscopy surgery

After his surgery, the nurses on Copperfield Ward looked after Rob before he was discharged the very same day. He was required to complete a number of therapeutic exercises to speed up his recovery and within two weeks Rob felt back to normal again.

“I received a call from the hospital a couple of days after surgery enquiring how my knee was and if I required any further assistance or information. This was a lovely touch and shows how seriously KIMS Hospital take your wellbeing.”

Rob’s Consultant

Rob first met Mr. Jeer during an evening appointment in Estuary View Medical Centre, a KIMS outreach centre in Whitstable. “The facilities at Estuary View are ground-breaking; they are as amazing as are the Consultants that practice there”. Rob said:

“Mr. Jeer spoke to me as an individual not a number. He had a warm personality and even made a few jokes during the appointment, which is very comforting and quite unusual in my experience. He discussed the results of the MRI and what course of action he could provide. He advised me of both the pros and cons, there would no guarantees. Would I recommend to others, without hesitation. He was a fantastic Consultant.”

Life post-surgery has taken a slightly different, but very exciting path for Rob as he and his wife seek pastures new in South Wales. As well as having found a new home with his son’s young family, he is also starting a new job as the Maintenance Manager in an early 1800’s Gothic revival building!