Share review of Professor Irshad Shaikh

Professor Irshad Shaikh 2024-02-01 Person 5 5 0

Having been diagnosed with a rectal rumour, I did my research and asked if I could have my surgery performed by Professor Shaikh. Because of where the tumour was located, I felt he could make the difference between having a permanent, or even temporary, stoma post surgery and keeping a more normal bowel function. I also felt he offered me the best chance for survival going forwards. My consultation with him was very detailed, but was also very relaxed and humorous at times, which immediately put me at ease. He explained my diagnosis and the results, gave me 3 options for treating it, the various risks associated with each and his recommendation, which is what I opted for. This was a robot assisted, laparoscopic anterior resection where the rectum would be excised, as well as the surrounding lymph nodes, and the remaining ends joined together. I left that consultation feeling so positive. He instilled confidence. I had no doubts. I was given a wealth of information, by the colorectal nurse, to take away with me, which gave more information about the procedure, support networks, what to expect leading up to surgery, post surgery etc. The surgery took about 5 hours and I was discharged the next day and went onto a 'virtual ward' for the next 11 days, for post operative care. This service was amazing and it was so much nicer to be recovering at home. Within the week I was managing to walk around the block, within 3 weeks I had my first meal out in a restaurant and could eat and drink most things again. There has been a general feeling of discomfort when gas builds up, and slight discomfort when sitting, due to the healing processes taking place, but these are slowly improving with time. One feature of this whole process, that was really beneficial, was the availability of the colorectal nurse team to answer any queries or concerns that I had pre and post surgery, as they occurred. The great news is that I don't need any further treatment as the tumour has been completely removed and, on analysis post surgery, there was no sign of spread into the lymph nodes. I'm so very grateful to Professor Shaikh and his wonderful team for their great skill, professionalism and for giving me my life back.