"Disappointed with aftercare"

I had a circumcision operation in the QMH several weeks ago after being on a waiting list for some time. I had to elect for local anaesthetic to be seen quicker. Big mistake, felt most of the procedure despite being given more anaesthesia. That was just the start of the trauma however only a few hours later suffered a major arterial bleed which could have been life threatening if I hadn't got to VHK in time. Was kept in AU2 for 16 hours before being discharged. Now, I would have expected to be followed up by Urology but no, told to return to A&E if bleeding continued. Which it did, and I had to return twice taking up valuable bed space before being seen by a Urologist.

So, two infections, courses of antibiotics and weeks of pain and swelling down the line and I thought the worst was over. However, now the swelling has partially subsided, it looks to me like the surgery has been seriously botched and I may need to go through this all over again. Saw a Dr a few weeks ago and requested a two week follow up but on phoning Urology seems they dismissed this and have been told it's now six weeks. To be honest, I'm not sure they have fully understood my concerns. So the anxiety, pain and fear I've endured continued. However, I was unable to wait for the six week review as my wound started bleeding again and, after having to make an appointment with my GP, was immediately referred back to AU2 to see the on call Urologist. They examined me and told me my wound had healed on one side but was open on the other. They said this would knit together in time and swelling would subside, I'm far from convinced but time will tell. And, as I now had another infection, was prescribed antibiotics for a third time.

This is a criticism of both the procedure I had, and lack of suitable aftercare from Urology, not of the front line NHS staff I saw. Every single person I've encountered on this dreadful journey has been nothing but kind, caring and professional. Special mention to one of the Urology secretary's, who has been so helpful to me.

I would have expected a more tailored and accessible aftercare especially after the trauma I endured after my initial surgery. I am bitterly disappointed and upset that this was not provided when I needed it most.