Louise,
I suppose it depends on where about in the UK you are but I gather that in most parts of the country the waiting list for orthopedics is about 9 months - not good! I'm in Scotland and was told 9 months for surgery, I was lucky enough to be able to go private and was done within 3 weeks BY THE SAME SURGEON! If this isn't an option for you, perhaps you could speak to the OS or his secretary to see if there is any cancellation appointments you could have - worth a try! Good luck.
Natalie.