Dalai Lama is recovering exceptionally fast: Personal physicians
By Tsering Choephel
DHARAMSALA, 4 July: The Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, is rapidly recovering and able to walk after a successful knee replacement surgery in the US, as confirmed by two of his personal physicians in a video announcement on Thursday.
Dr Tsetan Dorji Sadutshang stated that following observations by the surgeon and physical therapists on the fifth day since the surgery, “They both commended His Holiness for recovering exceptionally well, at a faster pace than normally anticipated.” He also assured that the swelling and pain following the surgery have greatly subsided, enabling him to walk.
“According to the plan, His Holiness will leave New York in a few days for a place with a more open environment, pleasant weather, and serene landscape,” he added.
Dr Tsewang Tamdin also affirmed that the Dalai Lama is recovering rapidly, with all his vital signs stable and in harmony according to Tibetan medical science.
Both doctors, in their address to Tibetans, friends, and followers of the Nobel Peace Laureate, reassured everyone not to worry as the Dalai Lama is recovering exceptionally well.
David J. Mayman, MD, Chief of the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service at Hospital for Special Surgery(HSS), New York, expressed his honour at treating the Dalai Lama: “It is truly an honour and privilege to have the trust not only of His Holiness but also of the many people around him who support and care for him. Patient outcomes are best when every patient is treated with the same care, respect, and attention. At HSS, our goal is to treat every patient like a VIP and never to change our well-researched and world-renowned protocol for VIPs.”
Regarding the Dalai Lama’s surgery, he explained, “During the first week after knee replacement, the primary objective is to minimize inflammation and swelling. His Holiness is mobile and walking with his physical therapy team. The second week involves progressing with walking and physical therapy exercises.”
“I would expect His Holiness to continue to improve in terms of his knee and walking over this coming year,” Mayman concluded.
Following the Dalai Lama’s departure from India to the US for surgery, and during the surgical period, Tibetans worldwide have been seen praying for the successful surgery and speedy recovery of their leader, who turns eighty-nine on 6 July 2024.
