For nearly four decades, Diana Bastin has been a dedicated registered nurse, spending much of her career in the operating room. Working at Sutter Health’s Santa Cruz Maternity and Surgery Center, she has assisted in countless procedures, ensuring the best outcomes for her patients. But earlier this year, Diana found herself in a different position — on the other side of the operating table.
In February, she underwent a total shoulder replacement at the Sutter Health San Carlos Surgery Center. The replacement was performed by Dr. Todd Kim, an for the Palo Alto Medical Foundation and Sutter Health’s Greater Silicon Valley Division. This wasn’t her first surgery with Dr. Kim; she had previously trusted him with another procedure.
“I had surgery there before and had a great experience,” Diana shared. “This wasn’t an injury, it was arthritis. Just repetitive, old age stuff.”
Diana had undergone arthroscopic procedures on both shoulders a decade ago, but over time, the pain worsened.
“It got to the point where I was having trouble sleeping, and my range of motion was deteriorating,” she recalled.
Four years ago, a doctor advised her that she would eventually need total shoulder replacements but recommended she wait due to her age. By 2023, at 61 years old, Diana knew it was time to take action. She sought a referral to Dr. Kim, despite having already consulted with another surgeon.
“Dr. Kim is great at the bedside,” she said. “He answers all your questions, gives you all the information, and lets you decide what’s best for you. He’s a talented surgeon, and his team is amazing.”
Before the procedure, Diana encountered a few challenges. She had a reaction to the surgical prep used during her first shoulder surgery. Determined to avoid a repeat experience, she worked closely with Dr. Kim’s team to find an alternative.
“They went above and beyond,” she said. “They didn’t have the prep I requested, but they special-ordered it just for me. That kind of effort makes a huge difference.”
As someone who has worked in the OR, Diana knew exactly what was happening during her procedure, which made the experience surreal.
“It’s really weird being on the other side,” she admitted. “I have so much respect for my colleagues, and I knew I was in good hands.”
One of the most remarkable aspects of her recovery was the long-acting nerve block Dr. Kim’s team used.
“Instead of lasting 8-11 hours, mine lasted 32 hours,” she said. “It significantly reduced my post-op pain.”
“Regional nerve blocks have been a huge advance for pain control after shoulder surgery,” Dr. Kim said. “We now use the long-acting medication in almost all cases for patients undergoing shoulder replacement surgery. Most patients wake from surgery with little or no pain. Like Diana, most of our patients can go home the same day after their shoulder replacement.”
Dr. Kim and his team take a moment to smile after performing total shoulder replacement surgery at Sutter Health San Carlos Surgery Center.
Now in recovery, Diana is focused on regaining her strength. She looks forward to practicing yoga, snowboarding, hiking, and doing everyday tasks without discomfort.
“I didn’t want to wait until I was 70 and have to slow down,” she said. “I wanted to stay active now so I can continue doing what I love for years to come.”
