"John Nuttall, 57, needs surgery to set the ankle which he broke in three places two years ago because it did not mend naturally with a plaster cast. Doctors at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro have refused to operate because they say his heavy smoking would reduce the chance of healing, and there is a risk of complications which could lead to amputation. They have told him they will treat him only if he gives up smoking. But the former builder has been unable to break his habit and is now resigned to coping with the injury as he cannot afford private treatment…
Mr Nuttall states…”I have paid my dues as a taxpayer-and now the NHS won’t treat me.”"



Healthcare Economist · UK Doctors refuse to fix builder’s broken ankle unless he quits smoking

How about..............."they say his inability to have surgery would reduce the chance of healing, and there is a risk of complications which could lead to amputation."