Spire South Bank Hospital transforms patient’s quality of life with expert urological care
07 July 2025
- After successful treatment for urinary retention, patient Andrew Bissell is back to enjoying the activities he loves
Spire South Bank Hospital has been praised for delivering life-changing care after a patient regained his independence and active lifestyle following expert treatment for a common but disabling urological condition.
Andrew Bissell had been living with severe urinary retention due to an enlarged prostate and a bladder diverticulum, restricting his urine flow. His condition prevented him from enjoying the pleasures of his life, which included kayaking, and walking. Mr Bissell found himself confined to his home, reliant on a catheter, and unable to make plans due to persistent discomfort and recurrent infections.
Due to the expected wait times for further treatment on the NHS, Mr Bissell opted to pursue private care. Following research into transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) surgery, he chose to undergo treatment with Mr Paul Rajjayabun, Consultant Urological Surgeon at Spire South Bank Hospital. His decision was based on living local to the hospital, Mr Rajjayabun’s esteemed reputation, and a personal recommendation.
The procedure, performed using bipolar TURP technology for improved surgical precision and recovery, was a success. Mr Bissell passed a catheter-free trial the day after surgery and was discharged shortly afterwards.
Mr Bissell has returned to his active lifestyle and is now making plans to go travelling around the world – something he had postponed for several years due to his condition.
Andrew Bissell kayaking (pictured)
Commenting on his journey, Mr Bissell said: “I am now beyond nine weeks from my surgery and my recovery has been wonderful thanks to Mr Rajjayabun. Everything to do with my hospital treatment has been absolutely first class. I genuinely felt like I was among family.”
Mr Bissell added: “I guess that, as silly as it sounds, I have almost regained total control of my bladder functioning which is the biggest and best change I had ever hoped for. I have said to Mr Rajjayabun that I will never be able to repay to him what he, and his team at the Spire South Bank Hospital have given me. I now just feel that ‘the world is my lobster’ as Del Boy would say. The amazing outcome I have been fortunate to receive, is not only of benefit to me, but also of benefit to my family and friends. We can all now get on with enjoying life together.”
Andrew Bissell (pictured)
Mr Paul Rajjayabun, Consultant Urological Surgeon at Spire South Bank Hospital, said: “I am committed to providing patients with timely, effective treatment using the best technology. It is always incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact we can have on a patient’s quality of life, and I’m very pleased with Mr Bissell’s recovery, outcome, and his kind feedback about our fantastic team at Spire South Bank Hospital.”