School Student
What's surgery like?
Su-Anna Boddy
Consultant Paediatric Urologist
I am a Consultant Paediatric Urologist at St George’s Hospital in London. I have a particular interest in hypospadias (correcting little boys’ willies as I say to their parents) and neuropathic bladders, often in children with spina bifida.
I love surgery because of the hands on approach and the atmosphere in the operating theatre is unique. Paediatric surgery is particularly appealing as it’s hugely rewarding talking to parents, and discussing their child’s condition with them.
I currently work part time and in addition to my clinical work, I am involved in medical politics. I was elected to the Council of The Royal College of Surgeons of England and am proud to be the first mother to be elected. I enjoy the variety because College work is so different from my clinical practice but still very important to surgery.
My husband is also a Paediatric Urologist, so we can share each others’ problems. We met when demonstrating anatomy, at Barts medical school. However, our children, who are now in their 20s, were put off both medicine and surgery because of the talk of penises and bladders at mealtimes.
I have found that in order to juggle a busy surgical career and family life you need to COPE – have Childcare, Communication, Organisation, Planning and the Energy to Enjoy both lives. Despite this. I do have a life outside surgery. I love cooking, skiing and restoring our cottage in Greece.
