Surgery Questions

[Zenji]

I have had many operations. To deal with all kinds of medical problems. Even though I about to have my ninth surgery I can never figure out what to ask my doctor. A friend of mine found this questionnaire with questions I should ask my surgeon regardless of the surgery I am having. I thought I would share it with all of you. It honestly helped me alot today. I brought it with me to see my surgeon and wrote all the answers down. I was able to go back over it because I forgot ever thing that was said in the office.

This surgery I am having is not Chiari related. I am having my gallbladder removed because there are several large stones and my gallbladder is starting to swell.

General Questions:

What is the name of the surgical procedure?
Why do I need surgery?
How soon should the surgery take place?
What might happen if I delay or avoid the surgery?
What results should I expect from the surgery?
Are there any non- surgical options?
If yes describe.
Are there any less invasive surgery options?
What is the next step if this surgery doesn’t work?
How much does the surgery cost? How can I find out?
Does my insurance cover this surgery?
Can it be done on an outpatient basis, and is that less expensive?

Questions to ask about the procedure:

What kind of preparation is needed for surgery?
Where will the surgery be done?
Outpatient Location:
Hospital:
How is the surgery done?
What kind of anesthesia will be used?
How long will the procedure take?
How successful is this procedure?
What are the risk associated with this surgery?
How much experience does the surgeon have with this procedure?
Has this procedure been done often in this hospital or surgery center?
What complications might develop (both immediate and long term)?
If a biopsy is being done, when can I expect to hear the results, and will my doctor call me?

Questions to ask about what to expect after surgery:

How long will I have to stay after surgery?
How will I feel after surgery?
How much pain is there after this type of surgery? How is it treated?
How long will it take to recover from surgery?
When can I return to work/school?

Questions to ask about what to expect when you get home:

What kind of care will I need at home?
Are there any activity limitations?
What should my diet be?
How soon can I eat a regular meal?
How soon can I resume regular activities?
What symptoms should I watch for and report?

[Zenji]

decided to bump this back up in case anyone else needs it

[selmaS]

Hi Zenji....thanks for sharing this ...very good info !!

"selma"

[Zenji]

you are very welcome. I was so happy my friend found this for me and I knew it would be useful on here.

[n40066]

thank you, friend!  i go on tues. to see the ns and this is most helpful!