Patient stories: exceptional support and care for kidney cancer

I did my research and discovered Bijan was willing to take on difficult cases and seemed a very dedicated person. After our initial consultant I was booked in for surgery. Bijan operated on one kidney to try to save it, and then three months later I had another operation on the other kidney, which unfortunately couldn’t be saved. Three months ago Bijan also removed my prostate.

I must say that Bijan truly is an exceptional guy, not just an amazing surgeon, but a selfless individual. The treatment and care he’s provided throughout has been amazing. While I was in hospital, he was there every step of the way. He visited every morning at 7am and he even called in at weekends to check how I was doing.

With COVID-19, hospitals have had a really bad year, but I’ve always felt safe at King Edward VII’s Hospital. They are really careful about hygiene. Everyone feels protected. Here, you have your own room and ensuite facilities which is important when you’re unwell. Being able to sleep at night is also vital for your recovery.

I found the care to be exceptional, not just from the consultants but from all members of staff. You get to see physios straight away after your surgery and they have great attitudes. In my case, it was quite serious and traumatic surgery, so it makes a big difference having very positive and supportive nursing staff who are all so good at their jobs.

The treatment I got was quite holistic, particularly with the prostate removal. I was assigned my own specialist prostate nurse, Michael Martin, who got involved every step of the way. Martin was very practical and explained everything clearly which is so important at a difficult time when there’s lots going on. They know their job, understand the procedure you’ve had, and work with the consultant to follow their treatment plan. Bijan was available at the end of the phone at all times.

When I was discharged, I was given contact details of someone I could call if I had any problems. I did need to ring once as I had a bladder infection which was dealt with promptly — Bijan gave me a prescription and that was that. It took the worry and anxiety out of the situation knowing that there was someone there who I could speak to at any time.

I would unreservedly recommend King Edward VII’s Hospital. It provides everything – hygiene, support, professionalism – the rooms are good and the care you get from the individuals is excellent. Clinically, Bijan Khoubehi is a brilliant surgeon, but he’s more than that. He’s protective and caring. I never felt I was alone. I always felt he was there for me, and I had complete confidence in him – he gives a lot to his patients. He’s a star.

“This gentleman’s urological problems were rather unusual and very complex.” Mr Bijan Khoubehi, Consultant Urological Surgeon at King Edward VII’s Hospital, comments. “He has kidney cancer in both kidneys and a recurrence of his prostate cancer. All of these needed detailed management with very careful surgical planning. I am delighted to say that his robotic surgeries have gone extremely well.”