Circle Reading
Private general and colorectal consultations
View availability and bookCONSULTANT SURGEON · READING, BERKSHIRE
Surgery explained clearly, delivered with care.
Mr Daniel Hancu is a consultant general & colorectal surgeon at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, treating patients at Circle Reading, Spire Dunedin and Berkshire Independent hospitals. Keyhole and open surgery for hernia, gallbladder, bowel and anal conditions.
DOCTIFY4.97 ★
REVIEWS51
YEARS IN PRACTICE23
Mr Daniel HancuMB, MSc, CCT,
ECFMGGMC number 7022279 · Consultant since 2021
General & Colorectal
Consultant Surgeon
Consultant Surgeon
Mr Daniel Hancu · Royal Berkshire Hospital
Meet your surgeon
Meet Mr Daniel Hancu, your consultant surgeon.
Mr Daniel Hancu is a Consultant in General and Colorectal Surgery at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. He offers private consultations for self-referred patients and those referred by their GP, as well as NHS appointments via GP referral.
He specialises in laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery for hernias, gallbladder disease, bowel conditions and adhesions. His practice includes haemorrhoids, anal fissures, fistula-in-ano, inflammatory bowel disease, abdominal wall and groin hernias, and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy, including colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
He has a particular interest in pilonidal surgery, fistula-in-ano, abdominal wall reconstruction and parastomal hernia repair.
GMC registration7022279
QualificationsCCT, MSc, MB
FellowshipsOxford IBD · Royal Berkshire
laparoscopic
Professional background
Experience, training and specialist interests
Mr Hancu studied medicine in Romania, qualifying as a doctor in 2004. He completed surgical training in general surgery across Romania and the UK and became a consultant in general surgery in 2013. He subsequently worked in UK hospitals in colorectal Specialist Registrar and fellowship roles.
He completed two surgical fellowships: one with the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) team in Oxford and another as a laparoscopic fellow at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
In 2021, he was appointed Consultant in Emergency, General and Colorectal Surgery at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. He also serves as an Honorary Senior Lecturer for Southampton medical students based at the hospital.
Private consultations
Find an appointment that suits you.
View availability and book through the hospital of your choice. NHS appointments require a GP referral.
Spire Reading
Monday evening appointments available. For enquiries, email hancuspiresecretary@gmail.com.
View availability and bookBIH Independent
Private appointments in Reading, Berkshire
View availability and bookFinding it difficult to take time off work? Monday evening consultations are available at Spire Dunedin Hospital.
Concerned about waiting for surgery? Additional theatre lists may be arranged on demand to help eligible patients access surgery sooner, subject to availability.
Self-paying? Berkshire Surgery offers competitive pricing for self-paying patients. Please enquire for an individual quotation.
Paying for your care
Private health insurance.
We welcome patients with private medical insurance. Please check with your insurer that your policy covers your consultation or treatment, and obtain authorisation before booking.
Cover and consultant recognition may vary by policy and hospital. Please confirm directly with your insurer before your appointment.
Conditions & treatments
Understand your symptoms and options.
Choose a condition to see the typical signs, how it is diagnosed, the treatment options and what surgery involves. This is general information and does not replace a consultation.
PERSONALISED CARE
One surgeon, from first consultation to final review
Two people with the same diagnosis can need very different treatment. The plan is built around your symptoms, your work, your family and what matters to you, and it is reviewed at every step rather than fixed at the start. If the honest answer is that nothing needs to be done, that is what you will be told.
Explained in plain words
No jargon, no rushing. You leave knowing what is wrong, what the options are, and what happens next.
Decisions made together
Watchful waiting is often the right answer. Surgery is recommended only when it offers you a real benefit.
PROCEDURES & RECOVERY
Operations, and what recovery looks like
Keyhole surgery wherever it is safe, and open surgery where it gives the better result. Times below are typical. The exact plan for your operation is confirmed in writing at your pre-operative assessment.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
GALLSTONES, BILIARY COLIC, INFLAMMATION OF THE GALLBLADDERThe gallbladder is removed through small cuts using a camera and fine instruments.
Inguinal hernia repair
GROIN HERNIA, PAIN OR DISCOMFORTA hernia is repaired and reinforced, using a keyhole or open approach as appropriate.
Colonoscopy & polypectomy
RECTAL BLEEDING, ALTERED BOWEL HABIT, POLYP SURVEILLANCEA flexible camera examines the colon. Polyps may be removed during the procedure.
Laparoscopic bowel resection
BOWEL CANCER, POLYPS NOT REMOVABLE BY SCOPE, STRICTURE, DIVERTICULAR DISEASEThe diseased segment of bowel is removed and the two ends rejoined, usually by keyhole surgery. Recovery varies by patient.
Haemorrhoid & fissure surgery
PROLAPSING PILES, PERSISTENT BLEEDING, CHRONIC ANAL FISSURETreatment may range from clinic procedures to surgery. The choice depends on your symptoms and examination.
COMPLETE TREATMENT DIRECTORY
Explore all 24 treatments
Clear explanations of what each treatment involves and when it may be considered. Select any treatment to read more.
01Hernia and abdominal wallAbdominal wall reconstructionRepair of weakened abdominal muscles and tissues, often after previous surgery.
What is abdominal wall reconstruction?
The abdominal wall is made of muscles and connective tissue that support the organs in your abdomen. Previous operations, injury or disease can weaken this structure and allow a hernia to develop.
When might it be recommended?
Reconstruction may be considered for a large or complex abdominal wall hernia, especially when it causes discomfort or affects everyday activities.
What does treatment involve?
A tailored reconstruction may use advanced surgical meshes, either open or laparoscopic surgery, and sometimes abdominal wall muscle release. Selected complex cases benefit from preoperative optimisation and Botox injections into the abdominal muscles around 2 to 6 weeks before surgery. Recovery care is planned individually.
Further procedure information02Anal and soft tissueAbscess incision and drainageA procedure to release pus from an infected collection.
What is abscess incision and drainage?
An abscess is a pocket of infection that can cause painful swelling, redness and sometimes fever. It may occur near the anus or elsewhere in the skin and soft tissues.
When might it be recommended?
Drainage is often needed when an abscess has formed because antibiotics alone may not clear a collection of pus.
What does treatment involve?
A small opening is made to drain the infection. The wound may be left open to heal, and follow-up may be needed to check for an underlying cause, particularly with perianal abscesses.
Further procedure information03Anal and soft tissueAnal fistula surgeryTreatment for an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and surrounding skin.
What is anal fistula surgery?
An anal fistula is a small tract that can develop after an abscess. It may cause recurrent discharge, irritation, pain or swelling near the anus.
When might it be recommended?
Treatment is considered when symptoms persist or infections recur. The position of the tract relative to the sphincter muscles is important.
What does treatment involve?
Many simple fistulas can heal after a single lay-open operation. Complex fistulas may require staged procedures, often starting with a temporary seton, followed by a sphincter-preserving approach such as LIFT, a fistula plug or an advancement flap. The aim is healing while protecting continence.
Further procedure information04Stoma proceduresClosure of loop colostomyReconnecting the bowel after a temporary colostomy.
What is closure of loop colostomy?
A loop colostomy diverts stool through an opening in the abdomen into a stoma bag, often to protect bowel healing after another operation.
When might it be recommended?
Reversal may be considered once the underlying condition has settled and the bowel is suitable for reconnection.
What does treatment involve?
The surgeon closes the stoma and rejoins the bowel. Bowel habits can take time to settle and the operation has risks that will be discussed beforehand.
Further procedure information05Stoma proceduresClosure of loop ileostomyReversing a temporary ileostomy to restore bowel continuity.
What is closure of loop ileostomy?
A loop ileostomy brings part of the small bowel to the abdominal surface, temporarily diverting waste into a stoma bag.
When might it be recommended?
Closure is considered when the protected bowel connection has healed and the patient is fit for another procedure.
What does treatment involve?
The small bowel is reconnected and the stoma opening closed. Temporary changes in bowel frequency and consistency are common during recovery.
Further procedure information06Bowel surgeryColectomy (bowel resection surgery)Removing a diseased section of the large bowel.
What is colectomy (bowel resection surgery)?
A colectomy removes part or, in selected circumstances, all of the colon. It can be used to treat certain cancers, severe diverticular disease, inflammation or other bowel problems.
When might it be recommended?
The decision depends on symptoms, investigation results and whether medicines or less invasive treatments are suitable.
What does treatment involve?
Surgery may be performed through keyhole or open incisions. The healthy bowel ends are often joined, although a temporary or permanent stoma is sometimes required.
Further procedure information07Bowel surgeryBowel resectionRemoving an affected part of the small or large intestine.
What is bowel resection?
Bowel resection is an operation to remove a segment of intestine affected by disease, obstruction, injury or another problem.
When might it be recommended?
It may be recommended when the affected bowel cannot be treated safely with medication or an endoscopic procedure.
What does treatment involve?
The diseased segment is removed and the remaining bowel is joined where safe. Sometimes a stoma is needed; the surgeon explains this possibility before treatment.
08Bowel surgeryLaparoscopic adhesiolysisKeyhole surgery to release internal scar tissue.
What is laparoscopic adhesiolysis?
Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form after abdominal surgery or inflammation and may cause organs or loops of bowel to stick together.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery may be considered in selected cases, particularly when adhesions cause bowel obstruction. It is not routinely appropriate for every episode of abdominal pain.
What does treatment involve?
Using small incisions and a camera, the surgeon carefully divides adhesions. The benefits must be balanced against the risk of bowel injury and new adhesions.
09Hernia and abdominal wallLaparoscopic parastomal hernia repairKeyhole repair of a hernia around a stoma.
What is laparoscopic parastomal hernia repair?
A parastomal hernia develops when tissue bulges through the abdominal wall beside a colostomy or ileostomy. It may cause discomfort or difficulty fitting a stoma appliance.
When might it be recommended?
Repair may be considered for troublesome symptoms, appliance problems or certain complications.
What does treatment involve?
Surgery reinforces the weakened area, often using mesh. The precise technique depends on the stoma, previous operations and individual circumstances.
10Endoscopy and investigationsColonoscopyA camera examination of the large bowel and rectum.
What is colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy uses a flexible camera to inspect the lining of the colon. It helps investigate bleeding, changes in bowel habit, unexplained symptoms and some screening findings.
When might it be recommended?
It may be recommended when a direct view of the bowel is needed to clarify a diagnosis or assess an existing condition.
What does treatment involve?
After bowel preparation, the camera is passed through the back passage. Biopsies may be taken and some polyps can be removed during the examination.
Further procedure information11Hernia and abdominal wallEpigastric hernia repairRepair of a hernia in the upper middle abdomen.
What is epigastric hernia repair?
An epigastric hernia occurs through a weak point in the abdominal wall between the breastbone and the belly button. It may appear as a lump or cause discomfort.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery may be offered when the hernia is painful, enlarging or otherwise troublesome.
What does treatment involve?
The protruding tissue is returned and the opening repaired, sometimes with mesh reinforcement. The technique depends on the defect size and symptoms.
Further procedure information12Hernia and abdominal wallFemoral hernia repairRepair of a hernia near the upper thigh or groin.
What is femoral hernia repair?
A femoral hernia develops when tissue pushes through a weak area just below the groin crease. It may cause a small lump or discomfort.
When might it be recommended?
Femoral hernias are often repaired because they have a relatively higher risk of trapping bowel.
What does treatment involve?
The hernia contents are returned and the opening repaired using an open or keyhole approach, depending on clinical circumstances.
Further procedure information13Endoscopy and investigationsFlexible sigmoidoscopyA camera examination of the rectum and lower colon.
What is flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy allows the surgeon to examine the lower part of the large bowel using a slim, flexible camera.
When might it be recommended?
It can help investigate rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habit, inflammation or other lower bowel symptoms.
What does treatment involve?
The camera is passed through the back passage. Small tissue samples may be taken and some abnormalities treated during the examination.
Further procedure information14Gallbladder surgeryGallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)Removal of the gallbladder, commonly for symptomatic gallstones.
What is gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)?
The gallbladder stores bile. Gallstones can sometimes block bile flow and cause episodes of upper abdominal pain or inflammation.
When might it be recommended?
Removal may be recommended for repeated painful gallstone attacks, gallbladder inflammation or selected related complications.
What does treatment involve?
The gallbladder is usually removed through small keyhole incisions. Most people can live normally without it, although recovery and digestive changes vary.
Further procedure information15Anal and soft tissueHaemorrhoidal artery ligation (HALO)A procedure that reduces blood flow to haemorrhoids.
What is haemorrhoidal artery ligation (halo)?
Haemorrhoids are enlarged vascular cushions around the anal canal that can cause bleeding or prolapse.
When might it be recommended?
HALO may be considered for selected symptomatic internal haemorrhoids after assessment and discussion of non-surgical options.
What does treatment involve?
Using a specialised instrument, the surgeon places stitches to reduce blood flow to the haemorrhoids. Additional stitches may lift prolapsing tissue when appropriate.
Further procedure information16Anal and soft tissueHaemorrhoidectomySurgical removal of troublesome haemorrhoids.
What is haemorrhoidectomy?
Haemorrhoids, commonly called piles, can cause bleeding, swelling, discomfort or tissue that protrudes from the anus.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery may be considered for large or persistent haemorrhoids when other treatments have not helped or are unsuitable.
What does treatment involve?
The affected haemorrhoidal tissue is removed. Pain management, wound care and keeping stools soft are important during recovery.
Further procedure information17Hernia and abdominal wallIncisional hernia repairRepair of a hernia developing through a previous surgical scar.
What is incisional hernia repair?
An incisional hernia occurs when tissue bulges through a weakened area of the abdominal wall at the site of an earlier operation.
When might it be recommended?
Repair may be considered if the hernia causes pain, enlarges or affects daily life, or when there is concern about complications.
What does treatment involve?
The abdominal wall defect is repaired using open or keyhole surgery, often with mesh reinforcement. The approach is tailored to the hernia and previous operations.
Further procedure information18Bowel healthIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatmentAssessment and non-surgical management of IBS symptoms.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (ibs) treatment?
IBS is a common condition associated with abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habit. Symptoms can vary over time.
When might it be recommended?
A clinical review helps identify likely IBS and assess whether investigations are needed to exclude other conditions.
What does treatment involve?
Treatment usually involves dietary and lifestyle adjustments, symptom-directed medicines and sometimes specialist support. Surgery is not a treatment for IBS itself.
Further procedure information19Anal and soft tissueLateral internal sphincterotomySurgery for selected persistent anal fissures.
What is lateral internal sphincterotomy?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal that can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.
When might it be recommended?
This operation may be considered for a chronic fissure that has not responded to appropriate non-surgical treatments.
What does treatment involve?
A small part of the internal anal sphincter muscle is divided to reduce spasm and help the fissure heal. The potential effect on continence must be discussed.
Further procedure information20Anal and soft tissuePilonidal sinus surgeryTreatment for recurrent or persistent pilonidal disease.
What is pilonidal sinus surgery?
A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or cavity in the skin, usually near the top of the buttock cleft, that may become inflamed or infected.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery may be considered for repeated infection, persistent discharge or troublesome disease.
What does treatment involve?
A modern off-midline cleft lift procedure may be offered for suitable patients. It aims to improve healing and cosmetic appearance by reshaping the cleft and removing diseased tissue. Outcomes depend on the individual case.
Further procedure information21Bowel surgeryRectal prolapse surgeryRepair of rectal tissue that protrudes through the anus.
What is rectal prolapse surgery?
Rectal prolapse occurs when part or all of the rectal wall slips down and may protrude outside the anus. It can cause leakage, discomfort or difficulty passing stools.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery may be recommended for persistent or significant prolapse, depending on symptoms and general health.
What does treatment involve?
Repair can be performed through the abdomen or perineum. The surgeon selects an approach based on anatomy, health and the expected benefits and risks.
Further procedure information22Bowel surgerySigmoid colectomy for diverticular diseaseRemoval of the sigmoid colon for selected complications of diverticular disease.
What is sigmoid colectomy for diverticular disease?
Diverticula are small pouches in the bowel wall. Some people develop repeated inflammation, narrowing or other complications, particularly in the sigmoid colon.
When might it be recommended?
Surgery is considered individually when episodes or complications significantly affect health or quality of life.
What does treatment involve?
The affected sigmoid bowel is removed, often using keyhole surgery, and the healthy ends are usually rejoined. A stoma is occasionally required.
Further procedure information23Anal and soft tissueSkin lesion removalRemoval of selected benign skin lumps or lesions.
What is skin lesion removal?
Skin lesions include cysts, lipomas and other growths. Many are harmless but can become uncomfortable, irritated or difficult to assess.
When might it be recommended?
Removal may be recommended for symptoms, diagnostic uncertainty or other appropriate clinical reasons.
What does treatment involve?
The lesion is usually removed through a small incision, often under local anaesthetic. Tissue may be sent for laboratory examination when indicated.
Further procedure information24Hernia and abdominal wallUmbilical and paraumbilical hernia repairRepair of a hernia at or near the belly button.
What is umbilical and paraumbilical hernia repair?
These hernias develop when tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall at or close to the navel.
When might it be recommended?
Repair may be considered when there is pain, growth or risk of complications. Small, symptom-free hernias may sometimes be monitored.
What does treatment involve?
The tissue is returned and the opening closed, with mesh used in selected cases to strengthen the repair.
Further procedure informationNo matching treatments. Try a different search.
This information is general and does not replace an individual clinical assessment. Not every treatment is suitable or available in every setting. Please confirm procedure availability with Mr Hancu's team, particularly for specialist procedures.
PATIENT EDUCATION
Understand your treatment
Explore the procedures through educational videos. Videos will be added here once reviewed and approved.
Hernia surgery
How hernia repair is performed. Educational video to be added.
Gallbladder surgery
Keyhole gallbladder removal. Educational video to be added.
Haemorrhoidal banding
How rubber band ligation works. Educational video to be added.
Colonoscopy
What happens during a colonoscopy. Educational video to be added.
Fistula surgery
Understanding anal fistula surgery. Educational video to be added.
FEES & INSURANCE
Clear costs, before you commit
Consultation fees are discussed before booking. Procedure fees, hospital charges and any scans are quoted separately, in writing, before you decide to go ahead.
Initial consultation
Up to 30 minutes, including examination
Follow-up consultation
Review after treatment or surgery
Fees may vary by hospital and are confirmed at the time of booking.
RECOGNISED INSURERS
AXA
HealthBupaCignaVitalityAvivaBenenden
HealthWPAThe Exeter
Please check your individual policy and obtain any required authorisation.
Your journey
From first enquiry to full recovery.
A clear, supported pathway so you always know what happens next.
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1
Request a consultation
Use the online form or message on WhatsApp. We will confirm a time that suits you.
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2
Meet your surgeon
A full discussion of your symptoms and history, with an examination, in clinic or online.
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3
Tests & your plan
Scans or tests if needed, then a clear explanation of every option, including not operating.
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4
Treatment or surgery
If surgery is the right choice, you receive full preparation and information beforehand.
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5
Recovery & follow-up
Written aftercare advice and a follow-up review, with support if you have concerns.
After your operation
What to expect postoperatively.
Recovery depends on the operation and on you. This is a general guide to what most patients experience. Your surgeon will give you advice specific to your procedure.
Your recovery journey
Knowing what comes next.
Recovery is planned before the operation. Here is the shape of a typical week-by-week return to normal after keyhole surgery. Your own guide will be specific to your procedure and personal circumstances.
Rest and recover
Focus on rest, pain relief and short, gentle walks. Follow the wound-care and discharge instructions you receive. Some tiredness, bloating or discomfort can be expected.
Find your rhythm
Build up gentle movement gradually, take breaks when needed and keep an eye on your wounds. Avoid strenuous activity and lifting until your surgical team advises it is safe.
Build confidence
Many patients begin returning to everyday activities and lighter work, depending on the procedure and how they feel. Increase activity gradually rather than rushing.
Return towards normal
Activity can often increase further as healing progresses. Your surgeon will advise when heavier lifting, exercise and physically demanding work are appropriate.
These stages are illustrative, not a fixed timetable. Recovery after more complex or open surgery can take longer. Always follow your individual discharge and postoperative instructions.
Patient feedback
What patients say.
Read independently verified patient feedback about Mr Daniel Hancu, provided by Doctify.
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Good to know
Common questions
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Tell us when suits you and we will confirm your appointment personally. This is a request form, so nothing is booked until you receive a reply.
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- Emailhancuspiresecratary@gmail.com
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