Minor cut-up

Had surgery on my left knee yesterday. A scope and cleanup - I think it went pretty well. Some observations...

1. The procedure was done at the Presidio Surgical Center (PSC). Despite the name, it isn't located in the Presidio. It's also nowhere near the hospital where my doctor's office is located. Tricky, no?
2. The PSC has a funny setup to minimize liability. They only provide equipment, space and support - all of the doctors are independent contractors otherwise unaffiliated with the Center. Because of this formal separation, even though it feels like a standard hospital to the patient, if something goes wrong during surgery, the patient will have no claim against the PSC (which has a lot of assets) and will only be able to sue the doctor. This is true even though the doctors can be part owners of the PSC... very sneaky.
3. The ceiling panels at the PSC are the modular type, common in hospitals. After every five or so panels, however, the standard grey panel is replaced by a backlit photo of a blue sky with white, fluffy clouds. Amazing what a difference a small change like this can make. These few panels made the otherwise standard hospital space feel much more open and relaxed. Imagine what will happen when thin LCDs get so cheap that they can be used instead - the Hogwart's dining room roof will be a reality!
4. Didn't need much Vicodin - the good doctor did an excellent job - which is a good thing. Turns out that Vicodin knocks me the hell out. Instantly. An off switch in pill form. Good to know.
5. I had to initial a form stating that if my insurance company didn't cover the cost of crutches I would be responsible for payment. For $30 crutches after a $4,000 procedure. Some insurance policies will cover the surgery but not the crutches. Yeah. Our health care system is in great shape.
6. My knee wrap looks like something Barry Bonds would wear if he were a mummy. Much better than a cast though, so no complaints from me.

Two more days with the crutches and then it's back to my own two feet again...