"I had a triple bypass at Broadgreen ..."

What I liked

I had a triple bypass at Broadgreen in Nov 2005. The surgeon did a first-class splendid job which he called "re-plumbing". The bypass was taken from my left forearm. I was 'done' on the Monday afternoon and I was home on the Friday afternoon. I have looked after myself since then and am in splendid health 3 years later.

It is a worrying time going and agreeing to major surgery of this kind but the nursing staff were attentive and sympathetic to one's concerns and queries.

What could be improved

When I was there the food was terrible, but then I was not all that interested, and I was just anxious to get home as soon as possible.

It was a bit of a 'production line' in my male ward and reception and departure could be handled a bit better.

Anything else?

My surgeon undertook 'beating heart' surgery and no use of a heart/lung machine. He said this reduced possible 'complications'. He was dead right - and I shall be grateful to him for the rest of my life.

It is up to the patient to contribute to immediate recovery and beyond, and this is crucial to maintaining and consolidating the gains achieved by the surgery.