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CUTTING REMARKS
The Parents in Absentia. These folks are so laid back they have to be
resuscitated in the waiting room. I try to tell them about their daughter's surgery, but their eyes are glued to the Jerry Springer show. After
numerous attempts to gain their attention, I decide to return at the
next TV commercial break.
The Loner. Some poor souls have no family. Their neighbor was kind
enough to bring them in and take them home. When I tell the details
of surgery to the "friend," he's quick to add that he really doesn't
know my patient well and that he does appear "strange" at times. He
also mentions that my patient has no real friends, is seldom seen in
public and that the houselights are rarely on. Oh my goodness, I think
I just operated on a member of the Addams family! Call security …
again. OSM
Dr. Kelly (johndk ellyiv@aol.com) is an orthopedic surgeon/ sports-shoulder
specialist who practices in Philadelphia, Pa.
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