A SOUTHAMPTON man has become one of the first to benefit from a new initiative which ensures cardiac patients are fully informed about their procedures.

Mark Cooper 57, was shown a series of animated videos from the comfort of his own home before his planned operation on January 21st.

The videos were part of the multi award-winning Explainmyprocedure, the brainchild of London consultant interventional cardiologist, Professor David Wald.

They aim to provide vital information to patients about their procedure, alongside other provisions available.

Mark said: "I am a keen on outdoor pursuits including running and cycling and at 57 years of age didn’t want to find my activities curbed for the rest of my life and replaced with a cocktail of medication.

"After only a few days following the procedure I have been able to comfortably start walking and see a path back to a normal life.

"The video certainly gave me the reassurance I needed and a clear understanding of what to expect.”

Southampton charity, Wessex Heartbeat have sponsored a five-year-license to introduce the resource to the Wessex Cardiac Unit at University Hospital Southampton.

The video explained to Mark, the proposed procedure to insert stents into the narrowed heart arteries, that would be performed by Dr James Wilkinson.

They covered not only details of what the procedure involves but also any risks, the benefits and alternative treatments.

Dr James said: “Thanks to Wessex Heartbeat, these simple, well made, information videos will substantially improve patient care at the University Hospital Southampton.

“Not only are they an important resource for the patient, but they can also be watched with relatives at home as many times as needed, providing peace of mind and reassurance ahead of what can often be a difficult time."

John Munro, CEO of Wessex Heartbeat said: “Undergoing heart surgery can be a daunting time for our patients. However, with these informative, easy-to-digest videos – as well as the incredible care of Southampton’s dedicated cardiac team – we are confident that patients will go into their procedure reassured and with a much better understanding."