Hi , thanks for the replies. The German football club's insurance doesn't cover the operation unfortunately. I think I'm going to have to try another doctor in France and see if they will operate or offer other advice. The ones i spoke to so far have been changing their mind constantly as to what the problem is and I've lost faith in those doctors. I had thought everything would be ok as I am covered for an operation in France which is why I didn't contact the insurance company when it happened. I'll need to find one who will operate as you suggested.