Barry Smith (Clavicle Fracture)

February 27^th, 2007

Dear Dr. McNair and the staff at Panorama,

I'm writing this letter to express my gratitude and thanks for the treatment I received last summer at Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center.

Last May, I suffered a fractured clavicle while mountain biking. A trip to the emergency room led to the diagnosis and a recommendation that I get an orthopedic consultation "in a few days or a week." Two very painful days later, on a good friend's recommendation, I called Panorama. The very next day I was scheduled to see Dr. McNair.

When I arrived at Panorama the next day the staff was friendly and seemed genuinely concerned for my well being. The X-ray technician was efficient, and funny, keeping my mind off how sore my shoulder felt. Dr. McNair then examined my injury and looked at the X-rays. He took time to explain to me what he saw on the film, the extent of my injury and how that related to recovery time.   

I explained to Dr. McNair that it was very important to me to have quick recovery. With a three-week-old baby at home and a career in the cycling industry, I did not want to be out of commission for long. Dr. McNair was very understanding and sympathetic. He showed real concern over not only me, but for my wife and family since I would not be able to help with our new baby. After discussing the options, it was decided that a surgical intervention would allow the fastest recovery. As before, Dr McNair unhurriedly explained the details of the surgery and what I could expect in the days, weeks and months after. The surgery was scheduled just three days after the examination.

After the surgery I was feeling better almost immediately. How nice it was to feel intact and not to have a broken bone scraping around in my shoulder. Only three days after having a titanium plate placed to hold the bone in place, I was able to cradle my baby and feed her a bottle.

By following Dr McNair's recommendations for recovery, I was able to begin stationary biking after 4 weeks, road biking after 8 weeks and competitive downhill mountain biking after 12 weeks. To this day, I have had no discomfort or pain from the procedure.

Thank you, Dr. McNair and Panorama, for providing me excellent care and friendly service.

Sincerely,

Barry Smith