Whipps Cross Hospital, London

[PBaines]

My husband has an appointment at Whipps Cross for his assessment for ablation. While we are very pleased with the speedy appointment, we are rather apprehensive about the procedure possibly taking place at Whipps Cross. It is not just the very bad press that is putting us off; a workmate's partner has experienced appalling care there (not cardiology) as a result of which she is now permanently incapacitated. Can anyone reassure me that WC's cardiology department is competent? We had decided against going private but if there is any chance that my husband might not get good care and attention, we will have to reconsider. Many thanks.

[Annpatricia]

The crucial thing is the skill and experience of the person performing the procedure - try and find out where they trained and how many ablations they have done and how long they have been doing it - bearing in mind the procedure only became available around 2007/8

[Annpatricia in reply to Annpatricia]

Just done a quick google and see that all cardiology at Whipps Cross is provided by Bart’s Trust - where the main north London grouping of NHS Electrophysiologists have come together to form a centre of excellence.

[PBaines in reply to Annpatricia]

Thanks, Annpatricia.

[10gingercats in reply to Annpatricia]

and the hospital record of cleanliness is important.

[BobD Volunteer]

I believe WC is part of Barts system under Prof Richard Schilling so ignoring what tgeh building may be like the team should be good.

[Tracyhithere]

My son (aged 28) had an ablation there two years ago. There was nothing remarkable about the procedure, he was discharged later in the day and we made the three hour journey home. Later that evening he began to cough up blood so we rushed him to local A&E who knew little about the procedure he’d had and if it was related. We naturally worried that it could be a clot. Both A&E consultant and myself spent hours trying to contact anyone with knowledge at Whipps Cross and Bart’s, to no avail. Eventually a nurse called back the next day. Summary-no problem with procedure but no out of hours care or advice as no one available out at either hospital , which was incredibly frightening for my son. Advice-make sure you get a contact number for advice if going home the same day in case of any events.

[sirey]

I had my cryoablation at Whipps Cross two years ago. The procedure was carried out by Prof. Schilling and the whole experience was extremely efficient. I was given a contact number when I came home. To date I am still A.F free but if necessary I wouldn’t hesitate to return there. Good luck what ever you decide.

[Mama48]

Like sirey I had a cryoablation there about 2 years ago, performed by Prof. Schilling. I felt extremely well looked after and the procedure itself was done efficiently and promptly. We stayed at a travel lodge the night before as I was concerned about being there at the time requested, I went home that afternoon. Good luck but I would happily go back to Whipps Cross .

[PBaines]

Again, thank you all for the feedback. We will go along to the assessment and make up our minds from that. But judging by Mama48 and Sirey our (OK, my!) fears may be unfounded. Will check for follow-up procedures too.