The operation lasted approximately 3.5 hours, and according
to Iserbyt, it was more extensive than initially expected.
"They spent about 3.5 hours on the operation. It was a
major operation," he emphasized. "The doctor said that the narrowing
in the femoral artery was even more obvious than on the scans."
The procedure involved work around his abdominal muscles,
leaving him in significant discomfort.
"Because they touch a part of your abdominal muscles, I
still have pain. I can lie down comfortably, but standing up and walking are
difficult. I try to do that a few times a day. I'm not allowed to do much yet
and I have to listen to my body. If I walk 10 meters, I have to stop for a
moment."
Despite his struggles, Iserbyt remains optimistic about his performances
this past season, given the circumstances.
"Looking back, I still played at a high level this
season. Of course I expected more, but with the knowledge I now have of the
injury, it was still a good season," he reflected.
However, the road back to full fitness will be a long one.
He acknowledges that surgery alone will not immediately restore him to peak
condition, but remains hopeful based on the experiences of other riders who
have undergone similar procedures.
"Now I have a long rehabilitation process ahead of me.
It's not that I'm back to 100% because of the operation. Although it has
already produced good results for many riders. The prospects are good, but it
remains a long road that I will have to travel."
The first stage of recovery will be particularly
frustrating, as he must completely rest for six weeks, avoiding any physical
activity.
"That’s quite a long time," he admitted. "And
a boring life, like that."
Looking further ahead, Iserbyt is targeting a return to
competition in July, though he understands this will affect his performance in
the upcoming cyclocross season.
"In July I will most likely be able to resume
competition. So of course that will have an impact on the upcoming cross
season. I am realistic about that. Although I am also hopeful that with a good
training plan I will also perform well."