"Excellent theatre care, but post op pain."

I recently had an elective revision microdiscectomy at the Walton Centre.

The pre operative appointments were efficiently run, the surgical consultations were effective and I was listened to. The pre operative assessment was thorough and reassuring with helpful staff throughout the hospital.

I had total confidence in the theatre and anaesthetic team who were patiently reassuring as I was, as usual, anxious before a procedure.

My only disappointment lies with post operative pain management. It just wasn't there when I needed it. I emerged from theatre with significant discomfort, unlike previous surgery, and this was partially addressed within Recovery who gave iv painkillers and were very conscious of getting me back to a ward swiftly. The ward staff were very welcoming.

At no time following surgery was there any discussion of pain score or type and I was told I could have the pain medications I came in with and had brought...paracetamol and codeine (used occasionally for mild ache/pain). A steroid injection, and a break from work had meant a very welcome relief from stronger medications and I was delighted to have given my system a pre-surgery 'rest'. The fact that circumstances had changed and I had had surgery was ignored.

My discharge the following day was delayed by a passing doctor who said my pain was not managed effectively enough for me to go home. Nothing was done apart from adding oramorph; a medication I had to ask for specifically at each meds round, had never had before, was sometimes forgotten and on one occasion delayed for 6 hours. There was no plan, no alternative and no discussion, and I felt very bad having to ask and ask.

It was a struggle to get anything added to my prescription until 30minutes before I was discharged in the evening the following day.

This was just massively disappointing in what was an otherwise very good system. There were many patients with really difficult and complex issues to deal with. I appreciate my issues pale in comparison but I was left in pain and unable to sleep or reposition myself in bed.

All staff were very nice but they were just rushed off their feet.

What was lovely and worked really well was the care given by the team providing drinks, food and cleaning. I was only asked once how I liked my hot drinks and the staff remembered. This was a lovely touch. There was a good choice of food which was served piping hot. Drinks and food were always placed within reach and water jugs regularly refilled. Cups and plates were never left lying about. There were plenty of teas and coffees and the bathrooms were kept clean.

I am exceptionally grateful that I have been given this opportunity to improve my health through the NHS, and I really do appreciate that staff are very hard pushed.

I am just very upset that my hospital discharge was postponed specifically for pain management issues which were not then 'owned' and addressed.