10 Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation

10 Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation

OneVillage
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OneVillage
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OneVillage Team

27 months ago at 12:50 PMFebruary 13, 2023 at 12:50 PM

This article gives a list of 10 questions that patients should ask your surgeons before undergoing a surgical procedure. These questions include asking about the surgeon's qualifications and experience, the risks and benefits of the procedure, and the potential alternatives to the surgery. It is important for patients to feel informed and comfortable with the surgical process before proceeding.

10 Questions to Ask

1. Why do I need this operation?
2. How will the operation be performed?
3. Are there other treatment options, and is this operation the best option for me?
4. What are the risks, benefits, and possible complications for this operation? Will my health history and the medications I am currently taking mean the risks, possible complications, and benefits will be different for me?
5. What are my anesthesia options?

1. What kind of anesthesia is best for me considering my health history, the prescription medications, and vitamins/herbs I take?
2. How will I be monitored during the operation?
3. Do I need to be seen in a pre operative anesthesia clinic?
4. Will I need any blood test or other tests prior to my surgery?

6. What can I expect before the operation?

1. Will I need any special preparation – tests, blood donation, blood thinners, change in my routine medications?
2. Will I need any special diet?
3. When do I have to stop eating and drinking?
4. Should I take my home medication on the day of my operation?

7. What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet, and home care?

1. What type of care will I have to provide for myself at home?
2. When will I be able to return to my regular activities (work, lifting, driving, and exercise)?
3. Will I need any medication—antibiotics, pain medication?
4. What can I do to help with my recovery?
5. Will I have any drains or other tubes when I leave the hospital?
6. Will I need any special items to care for my surgical site?

8. Could you tell me about your experience with this operation?

1. Do you perform this operation regularly?
2. What is your success rate, and how often do your patients experience any problems?
3. Are you board certified? By which board?
4. Are you a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons?
5. How can I contact you if I have more questions?

9. Is the surgical facility accredited and properly staffed?
10. How much will the operation cost me, and what type of insurance do you take?
11. Are all of the people involved in my operation covered by my insurance (anesthesia, pathology, radiology)?

3 comments

Last activity by Betty Oliver

Anonymous

B
Betty Oliver

One question that I would add to the list is whether or not there are any alternative treatments to the surgery being recommended. It's always good to explore all options before making a decision.

0 Replies
Justin
Justin Perdania

I found it interesting that the article suggests asking about the surgeon's experience and success rate with the specific procedure I will be undergoing. This seems like an important factor to consider when choosing a surgeon.

0 Replies
Luke
Luke Smith

Thank you for this helpful article! I appreciate the list of questions to ask my surgeon before my surgery. It gives me peace of mind to be as informed as possible.

0 Replies

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