Update

I've just seen him, they're keeping him in icu overnight, he's in a lot of pain, dehydrated, v low blood pressure and generally not feeling too good -  most importantly though his hands and arms are still working just the same, thank goodness and he's happy about that.

They took the metal work out and the op went well but I don't know exactly what else they've done.  Won't know any more until morning now.