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Mr. David Houlihan Patient Testimonials
Knee Surgery Testimonials
Mr BR
Total Knee Replacement
Dear Mr Houlihan-Burne, I don’t expect you to remember me but I am a former patient of yours and you carried out a full (R) knee replacement at Mount Vernon Hospital some years ago. It was a little more complicated than normal as I did not have a patella in the knee you replaced. However the good news is that in my mind it has been a fantastic success. I am still playing golf and lead a fairly active life now thanks to you and your team. I have decided to challenge myself on behalf of Help for Heroes to climb Mount Snowdon . I would like to thank you for giving me opportunity to regain my active life and being able to attempt this fundraising event.
Mr AH
ACL reconstruction 2011
Back in July when I last saw you, you said to contact you in six months time to update on my progress.I can’t believe it’s been a year since the op. Thankfully, I think the op was a complete success and in the last few weeks have felt myself getting back to my best when playing football. After matches, the recovery time is getting shorter and shorter
Thank you so much for your help, you always made me feel comfortable and were patient with my queries. You are a superb professional. But I’m sure you will forgive me for hoping I never have to see you again ;-)
Thanks again. Have a fantastic xmas and new year.
Mr HL
Signature personalized Total Knee replacement, 2011
Dear Mr Houlihan-Burne
On Sunday last, I walked around one of our local lakes, albeit on crutches and covered nearly one mile, without discomfort. This is a feat that I have not been able to achieve for some time without acute pain.
On Monday, 20 days after the operation, I achieved a complete leg bend. My osteopath was not only delighted, but also amazed, as he had never before experienced a patient achieving this degree of motion in such a short period of time. He estimated the bend angle to be just under 165º.
I see this as a fitting tribute to a fine surgeon and to the team at Bishops Wood.
Knee Surgery Testimonials
Mr P.F.
Knee Replacement, 2011
Due to a number of complicating factors, I had been waiting almost a year for a knee operation when I first saw Mr Houlihan-Burne. I was in considerable pain and depression and doubted whether, in my late seventies, I would ever regain my fitness. However, he took on board both my mental and physical state, treating me as a person and not just a medical condition. His optimism was well founded and his skill and care have resulted in a full and rapid recovery. I cannot thank him enough for having given me my life back.
Mr P.H.
Knee Replacement, 2010
It is a year almost to the day since my 'op' and I thought it a good moment to let you know that, after a few aches and pains before Christmas, I have now virtually forgotten that I ever had the problem. Jemima and I decided at Christmas time that we needed to take more care of ourselves so gave each other membership of Champneys. We visit three sometimes four times a week and I still do my hydrotherapy exercises. So, very many thanks and our very best wishes. Trust all well with you, I guess our economic problems have not diminished the number of dodgy knees! If you can assist with eyesight, hair loss, deafness, or an inability to score runs please let me know.
Mr M.W.
Bilateral simultaneous Signature Personalised knee replacements. 2011
I have been deliberating over having both of my knee joints replaced for over 10 years. The information and new technology that Mr Houlihan-Burne discussed with me at the consultation was sufficient for me to make a sound decision and to proceed with the operation.
Six weeks prior to the operation I returned to the gym to build up my legs and upper body muscles which I knew would be advantageous during the recovery period. The operation went well, with the right knee (the worst knee) taking longer than expected. Within three hours of the operation the physios were chomping at the bit to get me up! I only managed to stand and not walk on the day of the op. The following morning I was able to walk about 30 meters with the aid of crutches. Within 48 hours of the operation I was walking freely around the hospital and grounds and up and down stairs with the aid of crutches. I was discharged after 72 hours of the operation, I used the crutches for a couple of days and have not looked back since.
Was it the right decision to have both knee joints replaced at 53 years of age? – absolutely. I would certainly recommend having knee replacements sooner rather than later when you are physically fit enough to cope with the recovery. Once again, thank you very much for your professionalism and commitment to getting me pain free and mobile again.
Mr P.H.
Knee Replacement Surgery
It is a year almost to the day since my 'op' and I thought it a good moment to let you know that, after a few aches and pains before Christmas, I have now virtually forgotten that I ever had the problem. We decided at Christmas time that we needed to take more care of ourselves so gave each other membership of Champneys. We visit three sometimes four times a week and I still do my hydrotherapy exercises.
So, very many thanks and our very best wishes.
Mr M.S.
Bilateral Simultaneous knee replacements. May 2011
Just what I kneeded
Choose your surgeon, get a full diagnosis and only opt for surgery as a last resort. That’s the good advise I was given but I won’t bore you with the history. Suffice to say it all began to gel about a year ago at my first consultation with Mr.David Houlihan-Burne, a Consultant Orthopaedic Knee & Sports Injury Surgeon I’d got to hear about through friends and acquaintances in similar circumstances.
David’s diagnosis was essentially severe osteoarthritis in both knees largely due to the erosion of cartilage in the inside medial meniscus. His remedy was a partial knee replacement for both knees along with some tweaking of ligaments to correct my bow legs - my gait had got really bad. Together, it would make me half an inch taller!
I was immediately put at ease with David’s explanation. His website was also very helpful for those like me with an enquiring mind. That said, I do appreciate not everyone would wish to study the procedure in detail let alone be wide awake throughout ! In this regard I am eternally grateful to my anaesthetist Dr. Michele Stevens for explaining the pros and cons of the various anaesthetics. I’m so glad I opted for a spinal and witness what turned out to be quite a unique life experience. It felt a bit surreal at times but I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.
It took David and his team just 75 minutes to complete the procedure on both knees. It was a bit like being in a very busy and quite noisy workshop at times so no doubt others might choose to sleep through the procedure or maybe listen to loud music ! In no time at all I was back in the ward under the attentive care of Bishops Wood nursing / physio staff. Later that afternoon I managed my first few tentative steps under supervision and really haven’t looked back since.
Three weeks on and I’m making progress daily. The scars are healing well and most of the swelling / bruising has gone. I’ve even reduced my daily dosage of Paracetamol and Tramadol by about half. I’m walking quite freely though I do get tired and still use the crutches to cover any distance. Ascending stairs is nearly normal but descending still demands the more deliberate steps I was taught. I’ve had my first cycle ride but I’m not looking to join in the endurance trials some of my younger friends compete in. It will just be nice to take my girl out for a walk once again !
My thanks to David and all the team at BW for rejuvenating me, much appreciated.
Mr RE
Keyhole knee sugery (Arthroscopy)
I would finally like to give you my sincere thanks for your operating on me. The whole procedure through admission, care, physio instruction was very efficient. After the operation I had no real need for painkillers, relatively good flexibility was achieved after a few days and my wife (an ex nurse and theatre sister) was very pleased with my condition post surgery.
My physio hass described me as "two weeks ahead of expectations." I am doing my physio religiously and feel really positive about it.
So thank you once more for your expertise.
Mrs PG
Knee Replacement surgery
About 1 1/2 years ago, Mr Houlihan-Burne performed an arthroscopy on my right knee. I felt so well after that, that I decided he should be the one to do my left knee replacement.
I was right in my judgement as the operation went very smoothly, and the post operative recovery has been excellent. All throughout, Mr Houlihan-Burne has been extremely kind, professional and easy to talk to and he has explained all the procedures in detail. I, being a GPs wife, was aware of all the complications, but he put my mind at rest. Fortunately, none of these complications arose. Cheers!
Mrs JC
Total Knee Replacement
I first encountered Mr Houlihan-Burne at a lecture at Mount Vernon Hospital where I was very impressed with his enthusiasm on the latest procedures available for partial and total knee replacements. So this was the reason that I elected to use him for my TKR.
His explanations at every stage were positive and I felt exactly the same and looked forward to a successful outcome, after all it had to be better than my previous condition! I had the opportunity to stay awake during the operation – all tastefully done – and a few weeks later I was clambering around Dover Castle viewing the newly refurbished medieval tower which would have been impossible before without painkillers.
Mr F P
Aged 13, Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Knee cartilage repair surgery
Hello Mr HB!
I thought I would write to you once I was back playing rugby again, and I've played my first few games of the season now. I would like to say thank you for the fantastic work you've done with my knee and me; Physically and mentally! I was really worried about my return to sport as I'm sure you can imagine, but thanks to you and your team, faith was restored within me. Things are going fantastically well and I've had no physical problems with the knee since. It was hard work however you prepared me well for it, so thank you once again.
Rugby is the thing I'm certain I want to pursue as a career and without you and the physio's it would have been impossible. I am unthinkably grateful for everything you've done.
From another one of your success stories!
Ms DL
Bilateral Simultaneous knee replacements.
Just a quick note - thanks ever so much for your sponsorship - the bike ride was actually 47 miles - and I did it under 5 hours - knees were fantastic - so thank you - on for the next challenge, this will hopefully be inspirational for your next patient - as this was at exactly 6 months !!!
Ms M W
Surgery for dislocating kneecap, 2010
Thank you for making my knee better. Still on crutches but back at school. Going to my Prom on Thursday. I had my operation just 4 weeks ago ! Knee feels really good with no problems. Thank you again.
MR SP
Bilateral Simultaneous knee replacements
Six months ago I had bilateral knee replacement surgery and now I am playing 18 holes of golf and fully walking the course.
I had a six-day stay in hospital. The day following my operation I was helped out of bed by the physios and did some gentle stretching. Although painful, I was rewarded by more movement in my knees, and a nice shower! In the following days the physios increased the exercises, eventually allowing me to go up and down a flight of stairs.
I was given a set of exercises to increase knee bend and build up muscles. After one week I was able to use an exercise bike! This proved to be very beneficial. I still use the bike every day and feel that this has been the best possible therapy.
I would recommend the bilateral route, one operation, one period of rehab, and now 6 months later there is no second operation looming!
Mr CG
Golf Professional. Knee replacement surgery
Just wanted to say how grateful I am to you and your team for the recent partial knee surgery.
As you know I arrived back from skiing on the Sunday, in Hospital on the Tuesday, out of Hospital on the Thursday and back on my bike on the Saturday, not bad going as when I arrived in Hospital I could hardly Walk.
As the Golf Pro from West Herts G.C. I am well into my season with coaching and playing and have really benefited from the knee surgery, and this is the first time for three years that I feel like playing some competitive Golf.
Mr AK
Partial Knee Replacement
I am delighted to have the opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation for all you and the staff at Bishopswood have done with regard to the above.
Using crutches I was on my feet from day one. I could have gone home after two nights, but as I live alone I opted to stay for a third night as a precaution.
I found I could walk home using a cane and left the crutches behind at Bishopswood
As a result, when I saw you on Tuesday, two weeks after the operation, I had progressed beyond my greatest expectations. You gave me clearance to drive as soon as I felt confident to emergency stop. I began driving locally on the third week. No trouble!
It is still less than four weeks and although the knee aches at night it is steadily becoming more flexible and even though I am in my 87th year, I hope to be back on the golf course before this summer is out.
I cannot thank you enough for the skill and attention I have received under your care.
 Mr RC
Aged 76. Bilateral simultaneous knee replacaments
...rejoicing in the Lake District fells once more because he has two new and wonderful knees courtesy of Mr Houlihan-Burne.
Reg scrambled over the rocks like a mountain goat.
Once again - our heartfelt thanks for a job so well done.
Mr RE
April 2010 , Bilateral Simultaneous Knee Replacments
I had suffered with knee pain for years due to Arthritis and a few years ago I had arthroscopies on both knees. This really only eased the pain in my left knee but caused considerable problems with my right knee. I found walking difficult and painful but was reluctant to undergo further treatment. Then Mr Houlihan-Burne was recommended to me by two separate acquaintances and I decided to make an appointment. It was one of the best decisions I have made!
Right from the very beginning I felt I was in safe, capable hands. Mr Houlihan-Burne made me feel at ease and when he advised me to have two new half-knees I had every faith in his advice and decided to go ahead. I'm so glad I did!
The operation in January 2010 went very smoothly. I had both half knees fitted at the same time and I was able to put weight on my knees the next day. Since then my recovery has been remarkable. I was back to work after eight weeks and it could have been sooner if my job was less physical.
I am now walking longer distances, sleeping better and most of all I am now pain free. I would have no hesitation in recommending Mr Houlihan-Burne and, in fact, have already done so. I cannot thank him enough!
MR DC
Knee Replacement Surgery
Today marked the second anniversary of the day you changed both my knees and I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for revitalising my life. The first most noticeable effect was that I was able to carry shopping etc with no pain.
You told me I would be back on my bike "perhaps in twelve months". You were almost right. I had to get a slightly different cycle but was riding it fifteen months later.
I am pleased to say physically I am in better shape than almost anyone I know of my age.
Thank you, keep you the good work.
Mrs WA
Knee Replacement Surgery
I would like to say a great big thank you for my new knees. My life is so different now. I am able to do things I have not done for years. To be rid of the pain and walk again and do all my housework, gardening etc, unaided, is wonderful.
I also appreciate all the care and kindness shown to me by everyone while undergoing my treatment.
Mrs JP
Knee Replacement Surgery
I have just returned from holiday in France. The sun was shining - the snow was perfect - the slopes called and I skied.
My intention was only to ski blue runs, but by mistake my husband and I found ourselves on a red run and I had to continue - moguls and slushes - and I managed.
Thank you for making this possible; the knee coped well. The family and I were delighted. Thank you again.
 Following your treatment of Michael's knee He has now been selected into the England Karate Squad for the next two years. With your help he has made a full recovery, narrowly missing his 1st England place for the World Championships this November. Now firmly classified as 2nd in the country he is competing in Europe regularly. Many thanks for all you help in making Mikes dream come true
Tom, Wakeboarder
  'I was extremely pleased with the work that was done, the surgeons were very friendly and I was made very comfortable at all times.
The treatment has restored me to full fitness and I am able to ride again with full confidence, enabling me to take my wakeboarding to new heights. I am very grateful for the help I was given to get me back on track'
Mrs B Cook
Bilateral Simultaneous knee Replacements, 2009
Now that six months have passed since you operated on both my knees, I would like to thank you most sincerely not only for the very successful joint implants but also for giving me such good advice at the time on the options facing me. I did find it difficult then to decide between having one or two knees done. I now appreciate that there is a very considerable amount of effort subsequently needed to rebuild new knees into fully operating joints and I am now reaping the benefits from the exercise regime which I have carried out on your specific advice. I am also now very glad to have both knees complete rather than be contemplating facing a repetition of the process !
Mr S Murphy
ACL reconstruction, 2009
I thought I'd let you know I've just signed up for the London Triathlon next year! I've really been putting in the gym sessions and my knee feels great. The muscle definition is good, and getting better all the time with the swimming, cycling and the gym, and as I've just put my name down for the London triathlon, I thought it would be a good time to say thank you.
I'm back playing some six-a-side football, running, cycling and swimming and I couldn't have hoped for my knee to feel any better.
Many thanks again.
 As a runner and occasional triathlete it was almost inevitable that after 30 years of regular training and competition something was going give! My excellent physio, Alex Drummond (Drummond Clinic & Sportsfeet UK, Maidenhead), had treated my lower back problems and managed to keep me on my feet for the past 8 years, but when my right knee became swollen and painful in 2007 Alex quite correctly decided that expert help was needed and facilitated an introduction to David Houlihan-Burne.
As an athlete my relief on meeting David for the first time was palpable: here was young guy with
an acute interest in sport himself, as an age-group triathlete of some notoriety, who was clearly sympathetic to my circumstances. No sharp intake of breath, or "don't you think at your age it's time to hang up your spikes" from this guy.
 An MRI scan and X-rays were promptly booked revealing damage to the medial meniscus, but an otherwise healthy knee. Day surgery was subsequently booked and performed by David and I was able to walk out of Bishopswood under my own steam. 10 days later I was running again!
Unfortunately a year on I suffered a further setback experiencing similar, but slightly different symptoms, which I struggled to ignore and finally gave in to a further consultation with David. This time it was wear and tear to the cartilage covering the femur (just like Freddie Flintoff), the solution being the relatively new procedure of "micro-fracture". 6 weeks on crutches and 12 before I could run again, however, which felt like an eternity. Despite my advanced age, David was confident that I would follow the rehab programme to the letter and increase the odds of success, which were otherwise stacked against me.
8 months on, I have competed with considerable success throughout the summer of 2009 at sprint distance triathlon and I am now training 6 days a week (running and cycling) with no ill-effects.
There is no doubt that, thanks to David Houlihan-Burne, I have been able to train and compete at this level and whilst my track career is sadly over, I have reinvented myself as a triathlete and aim to keep going for as long I continue to enjoy it.
Robert Briggs aged 55
GB age-group Duathlete World Champs 1997 & 1999
GB age-group Triathlete World Champs 1998 & 2001
GB age-group 800 metre competitor World Masters' Champs:
2005-semi-finalist outdoor
2006-finalist indoor & bronze medal UK Champs
Multiple Sprint Distance age-group triathlon winner 2009
MR AF - Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
I just wanted to drop you a note to say a big thank you. I had my left knee op back in the summer. It is an incredible feeling and each time I go to take a step up or down some stairs and expect the knee to give, nothing happens and it is as strong as it ever was.
Thanks very much!
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