My DP had a bicycle accident on Tuesday on his way to work (due to the disgraceful condition of the road that he was forced to cycle down because of roadworks blocking his usual path, but that will be another thread). He got a nasty break in his right wrist that will require surgery, though thankfully no nerve damage — just the bone — which means full recovery should be possible. It was scheduled for Wednesday morning, but after hours waiting in the hospital he was told the surgery was cancelled to make way for a higher priority emergency. We were then expecting it to be today (Thursday), but just had a call to say it would be postponed again. They didn't sound that hopeful that there would even be a slot tomorrow, and we just have to wait.
I am extremely worried, because DP is an outstanding pianist. Playing music is a such a massive part of his life (it's not his main source of income, but it could be if he wanted), and it would be absolutely heartbreaking if he was not able to recover full function of his wrist, as he plays very technically advanced music requiring the full range of movement.
I am very concerned that the longer he has to wait, the less likely it is that he will be able to recover fully. The doctors say that there's about a 10 day window before it would start getting more risky in terms of outcome, but I find it hard to believe that there is literally no difference to the risk of minor long term impairment if getting the surgery the day after the break vs. 10 days later. I assume someone whose day-to-day doesn't involve much precise hand function is less likely to notice minor restriction of movement vs. a musician who relies on their hands, so I can't help thinking the "no difference" verdict may not be accurate to this level of detail.
I want to do something, but I don't know if there's anything I can do. It's critical for DP's quality of life that his piano playing isn't affected. Are there any orthopedic doctors on here who can provide any reassurance? Is there any way of transferring to another hospital where it might be done sooner? We're in London, and he went to the closest hospital following the accident, but I don't know if he would be more likely to be treated soon at a bigger one? Would trying to go privately be likely to speed things up? Would that be advisable if it were an option? (I'm aware private hospitals tend to be less well-equipped than NHS.)
I'm going round the bend with worry, and I feel so helpless.