They were surprised that I wanted to watch and said they needed to verify it first. When I checked in for the first surgery, they told me I couldn’t watch that one, but they would monitor my vital signs to determine if I could watch the second surgery if I went through with it. Having helped with livestock birthing and butchering, this kind of stuff doesn’t bother me.
I went to ORA Orthopedics in Bettendorf, Iowa. The procedure took about an hour. I recommend wearing sweatpants that are easy to take off and on. I remember a few things from the first surgery. The room was cold, there was loud Christmas music playing, the surgeon, and three fantastic nurses. One of the nurses stayed by my side and continually asked if I was okay. The surgeon spoke to me during the procedure and even sang a little. He was from Sweden and had a strong accent; the only downside was that he went to Iowa. LOL.
During the second surgery, I was focused on watching. They had a sheet ready to cover my arm if needed.
As for why I wished I had done my right hand first, it would have allowed me to use my dominant left hand while healing, which would have made things a lot easier dealing with the first healing process and knowing what to expect for the second healing process. In fact, during the feedback questionnaire after the surgeries, my only negative comment was that if both hands need to be done, there shouldn’t be an option to do them both at once. They should recommend doing the non-dominant hand first.
Sorry about yet another question. Are you released the same day or do they keep you for a day or so?