Mr John Crawford

Written by a patient at Addenbrooke's Hospital

I first met Mr Crawford in 2016 after being referred for specialist intervention regarding my spine which had a noticeable deformity. I underwent multiple x-rays and MRI scans I was diagnosed with Thoracic Kyphosis (Scheuermann's Disease- a structural deformity of the spine). Mr Crawford was extremely professional and sympathetic and provided me with the reassurance and information I needed about my condition and the treatment options. I was referred to the Orthotics department to try a spinal brace which unfortunately did not improve my condition. I was left with no alternative other than surgery. Mr Crawford explained in great detail what would happen prior to the surgery, the operation itself and recovery process to me, in addition with involving specialist nurses, physiotherapy and pain management inputs who each in their own provided detailed advice and plans as part of the 'one stop shop' prior to the surgery to give you all the support and information. The surgery would be a Spinal Fusion to straighten the spine by using rods, screws and bone graft to correct the curvature. At my pre op appointment I underwent a series of x rays, blood tests, swabs for infections, urine tests, ECG's and neurophysiological tests. As well as seeing nurses and physio's. In addition Mr Crawford explained the final details of the procedure and listened to the questions and concerns I had regarding this major operation and put my mind at rest and signed the consent form. On the day of the surgery I reported to the ward where I underwent the pre admission process where I settled into the ward and prepared for theatre, the nurses came and done your observations as well as ask questions and provide a surgical gown and stockings to wear. I then saw the Anaesthetist who explained the process of being placed under a general anaesthetic and keeping you monitored throughout and after the procedure as well as keeping you comfortable afterwards. I then was taken to the operating theatre and into the anaesthetic room where the team reassured you and explained what was happening, you are hooked up to the monitoring systems which check your vital signs to keep you safe throughout the surgery, and a cannula placed into your arm to administer medications and fluids to keep you comfortable. Mr Crawford despite dealing with the surgical aspects of the operation remained with me whilst being placed under a general anaesthetic for reassurance, it was nice to have a familiar face in addition to the anaesthetic team. After the operation I woke up in the Intermediate Dependency Area. I was closely monitored in the unit until I could be stepped down to the ward. I spent a total of 1 week and a day in hospital. The physiotherapists would visit daily to build up strength and give me exercises to complete. The doctors would ensure my condition was slowly improving by monitoring my progress throughout the time in the hospital. The nurses would ensure you were kept comfortable throughout my stay in hospital by administering pain relief. Mr Crawford would visit and check the wound was healing satisfactorily. When the time came to be discharged the hospital team would ensure I had all the relevant plans in place to closely monitor my condition at home, they would provide documentation, medication and ensure follow up appointments were in place to ensure the recovery progress. Over the first few days and weeks the hospital team would be regularly be in contact to ensure I was recovering well. I would visit Mr Crawford in his outpatients clinic multiple times post surgery to ensure the recovery process was happening well. I would have an x ray at every appointment to ensure the rod placement was sufficient and that it was healing well. As the months and years went by the appointments became more spread out as I was making significant progress. I'm able to do things pain free, I no longer feel self conscious about my spine and am currently doing a job I love which would probably be impossible without this medical intervention. My life has been changed for the better thanks to the dedication, kindness and professionalism from Mr Crawford and his amazing team at Addenbrookes Hospital. I cannot recommend the service enough. I would be kept informed and any concerns I had were listened too. My condition has vastly improved. Mr Crawford and his team will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you!

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Written by a patient at Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital

This doctor is amazing, not only is he superpatient, but he is an expert in his field and an excellent surgeon. I had a severe case of slipped disc, and he knew exactly which treatment to offer. I could stand and walk without any pain right after the surgery. The only problem, which isn't his fault, is that there was a huge queue till I managed to get treatment as it took me 2-3 months to get the surgery, I had to wait a whole 1.5 months till the first appointment and a month till the follow up, and then another few weeks till the surgery. If you want great care, choose this doctor.

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Written by a patient at Addenbrooke's Hospital

Mr. Crawford exudes confidence whilst maintaining an excellent empathetic approach to patients. I couldn’t be happier with the service and surgery i have received and am very grateful to Mr. Crawford.

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Written by a carer at Addenbrooke's Hospital

I first met Mr Crawford 4 years ago when I took my daughter and she was diagnosed with Scoliosis. From start to finish Mr Crawford was outstanding. He explained everything to my daughter on a level she would understand and he had all the time for her. My daughter was so nervous about having surgery and getting wheeled down to theatre as soon as she saw Mr Crawford all the tears went and she felt in safe hands. Mr C gave her her confidence back and put a smile on her face. I cannot thank this man enough for what he has done, I know it’s his job but he goes over and above with his patients and really has got a heart of gold...in my daughters words “I cannot thank him enough and I wish him happiness for the rest of his life”. My son has now been referred to addenbrooks and I’m hoping we get to see Mr Crawford. He is amazing xx

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Written by a patient at Addenbrooke's Hospital

I went through a spinal fusion operation and had this doctor.. He made my stay at the hospital fantastic and I couldn’t have asked for anyone better. He fixed my spine and improved my life as a whole, I couldn’t possibly ask for anything more of him.. I regained my confidence and happiness within myself purely through his great work at what he does. I will forever remember him as the man who fixed me and be grateful for the kindness he’s shown me. I would always recommend Mr Crawford to anyone who’s considering going through anything in his expertise or the same operation as me. I wish him the best and all the happiness he’s caused all his patients combined and there’s nothing possibly he could do to improve as he’s already gone above and beyond! Thank you Mr Crawford, I appreciate you and everything you’ve done to help me in my recovery and surgery to become the confident young lady I am today. Thank you.

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