Reviews

 
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Written by a patient at Spire Bushey Hospital
29th September 2018


I had two opinions on the surgery I had to have on my prostate, after suffering chronic retention in my bladder due to a very enlarged prostate. When I first met Freddie Banks I felt comfortable immediately and listened to why I should have a HoLEP (laser) proceedure rather than SURP. The benefits of HoLEP surgery far outweighed the more complicated SURP and I elected to have it at Bushey Spire 2 days after the consultation, amazing. All the nightmare stories about excess bleeding and discomfort from the SURP made me feel much more confident when I was admitted. The surgery was a success and I was discharged less than 2 days after arriving. I can only describe Freddie as a MEDICAL GENIUS and he must surely be at the very top of his abilities. His fantastic bedside manner and assurances also make him a top person. I wouldn’t hesitate for a second to recommend him.

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Written by a patient at Spire Bushey Hospital
30th May 2018


I would not recommend this doctor. Although he was knowledgeable on technical points, he did not know much at all about practical issues like measures to help pain - whether I could use local pain relief, supportive underwear etc. Worse still he didn’t seem to care about these, basically saying it was up to me. He showed a real lack of empathy for my pain. He also kept glancing at the clock just 10 minutes into this private (ie paid for) follow-up appointment. On email queries I had to chase his secretary several times for him to reply. He could also speak up a bit more as he tends to mumble. In terms of plus points he did write me a prescription when asked, and ordered a scan when asked. But overall not good.

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Written by a patient at Watford General Hospital
1st December 2015


I cannot thank Mr. Bank's enough for the way he dealt with the serious situation I was in, due to an earlier operation done by another consultant at another hospital that went terrible wrong. I found myself relocated to the Watford A and E hospital for them to deal with me. from the outset he gave Mr. Banks gave me confidence, although seriously ill. And with his understanding, explaining regularly, and in detail, how he was going to deal with my situation. Well it worked. I would also thank the team whose input all helped to get me back to health. Thanks you all.

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Written by a patient at Watford General Hospital
4th November 2015


Mr Banks impressed in every way. He listened to my concerns, answered my questions, and made a point of seeing me immediately before and after the Holep procedure. It is too soon for me to judge the success of the actual operation, but initial indications are good. I would definitely recommend him.

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Specialises in

  • Urology

Profile

I am a Consultant Urologist at West Herts Hospital Trust which comprises Watford, Hemel Hempsted and St Albans hospitals. I am mostly based at Watford Hospital but also operate at St Albans. My private practice is based at Spire Bushey Hospital.

I have a general urological interest, which means that I will see and investigate virtually all urological conditions, the large majority of which will not require operative intervention. Typically, this will mean patients with difficulties passing or holding onto urine, concerns regarding urological cancers and also conditions such as impotence, kidney stones or infertility.

I have a specialist interest in the treatment of benign prostatic obstruction with Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). This is a very safe way of operating on the prostate to improve flow and is particularly good for very large prostates or medically unfit patients. I am one of the few experts inthe country who will tackle to largest prostates.

I also have a specialist interest in open kidney cancer surgery.

I also have a subspecialist interest in Paediatric Urology. I cover most conditions from hypospadias to adolescent issues.

It is my philosophy to listen to patients with a view to giving an appropriate and balanced opinion on how their condition should be investigated and treated.