"Kidney Procedures"

An uncuccsessful attempt was made to remove a large kidney stone that is lodged at the bottom end of my ureter, using laser. The next day I had a temporary nephrostomy bag put in place, and several days later, the nephrostomy was removed and a stent was inserted through the nephrostomy tract, through my kidney and down to my bladder.

This allowed me to have the reassurance that the kidney is healthy, and is being allowed to function as it should until another attempt is made to get rid of the stone.

The procedures were carried out in the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, Glasgow. The procedures themselves seem to have been carried out satisfactorily, and I was informed as to why the initial attempt was unsuccessful. There did seem to be some confusion around the stent insertion, as I was initially informed that this was going to happen at the same time as the nephrostomy, but the paperwork concerning the nephrostomy made no reference to a stent.  As it turned out, this was for the best because the nephrostomy procedure was carried out under local anaesthetic and took some time, and I do not think I could have withstood the stent insertion at the time. 

I'd like to commend the care given me by a nurse called Tracey in X Ray who looked after me during both the latter procedures.  Her presence was reassuring and she seemed to have an expert knowledge.  The two doctors who carried out the work were also excellent: Graeham and Dr Pova

I was cared for in two wards - the Same Day Admissions Unit, and Urology (ward 28).  In both wards I received excellent care that was efficient and compassionate.  The staff were friendly and caring and could not have done more for me, particularly in the Urology ward where medical staff Michelina and Harry (junior doctor) were helpful and informative.  The nurses: Jim, Michelle, Fiona, Grant, Ed and others were superb. I felt I was very safe and in very good hands, and I would like to thank them all for their care and compassion, and for putting up with my questions and even my guitar playing one night on the ward.

Although I have not yet reached a conclusion with my treatment - another attempt has to be made to remove the stone - I am highly satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the RAH.  Thank you all.