"Inguinal Hernia Reair - Day Surgery."

Anything else?

I chose HGH based on reading its reviews - Good decision.

From the initial consultation in June 2012 to the subsequent operation everything went like clockwork.

I was fully advised what they would be doing, the only snag was that the waiting time was predicted to be excessive - about a further 22 weeks and outside of the target 18 weeks. However, I would rather wait for a chosen hospital than look elsewhere for the shortest list because, while being in some discomfort and precluded from some activities, the condition was not critical.

I was asked if I would be able to come at short notice to take advantage of any cancellation which I accepted. About six weeks later I had a telephone call advising me of a list vacancy the following week, which was little more than a week ahead of a planned canal boat holiday, but the opportunity was too good to miss.

I arrived rather early for the pre-op assessment but was seen almost immediately - all very efficient.

The operation itself was equally efficient and the attention to patient comfort and reassurance was exemplary - even down to the detail of asking my preferred choice of post op sandwich which was reserved for me and presented and enjoyed some hours later.

There was negligible post operative pain except when moving - sitting up in bed first thing in the morning was probably the worst - although the visual effects appeared alarming with much swelling and bruising (quite normal I was assured). After 1 week I sat up in bed and suddenly realised it had not hurt and I could also cross my legs again!

I can happily report that the holiday went ahead as planned with the other participants making sure I didn't do anything strenuous.

That was all 5 months ago now. The hernia repair is holding well and the scar and internal hard ridge have virtually disappeared. There was a period about 3 months after the operation when I had some minor tweaky pains around the scar area - possibly the internal soluble stitches breaking up(?) as the internal hard ridge subsided at the same time.

Needles to say I have give full stars on every relevant count with grateful thanks to all the staff involved.