The past two years have been both exciting and challenging. I had the privilege of advising and operating on a diverse range of clinical problems, some of which have tested the wits of specialists up and down the country.

One of the surgical procedures I am especially interested in is minimally invasive joint replacement using a technique that radically cuts down the trauma and invasiveness of the traditional procedure with significant reduction in surgical trauma and postoperative pain. The period of postoperative recovery is usually halved as a result. I have carried out several hundred operations of this type since 2000. We are honoured to be entrusted with the care of many patients who can have their operations carried out anywhere else in the U.K. but choose OSSH. I had the privilege of operating on colleagues, their spouses, some notable celebraties and the like who travelled for hours to attend our hospital. I would like also to mention here a small operation for the correction of hallux valgus commonly known as bunions.

There are so many types of treatment for this condition. Some patients come to see me and tell me stories about very painful operations a neighbour or friend has had for this condition. My personal experience is different. I use a very simple technique that renders the operation virtually pain free after surgery and produces a very satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcome.

A major part of my time is devoted to the treatment of back pain. I have had extensive experience at Centres of Excellence all over the world in this difficult area of medicine. I have 30 years practice in this fi eld and also had the privilege of having taught students from the Cambridge and Leicester University Medical Schools. I have also lectured about this subject at hospitals abroad notably at the University of Utah, USA. The spectrum of procedures is wide. Some are used for the relief of sciatica, some for back pain, instability or deformity of the spine. This surgery can bring about life-changing benefi ts for the majority of carefully selected patients. I am fortunate to have a team of had extensive experience at Centres of Excellence all over the world in this difficult area of medicine. I have 30 years practice in this field and also had the privilege of having taught students from the Cambridge and Leicester University Medical Schools. I have also lectured about this subject at hospitals abroad notably at the University of Utah, USA. The spectrum of procedures is wide. Some are used for the relief of sciatica, some for back pain, instability or deformity of the spine. This surgery can bring about life-changing benefi ts for the majority of carefully selected patients. I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated and skilled professionals who work with me and we are privileged to have a unique working environment of a clean well designed hospital that feels more like a hotel but with the qualities of an outstanding Centre of Excellence.

On behalf of the staff and myself I would like to thank you for your trust over the past 20 years and wish you all the best for the forthcoming festive season and a healthy and prosperous 2010.