Deciding on Surgery
Being scheduled for surgery can be frightening. People who prepare mentally and physically before their operations are likely to have fewer complications, less pain and a quicker recovery than those who don't prepare, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Knowing all you can about your surgery is especially important if you are in a consumer-directed health plan, such as a medical savings account. These plans place more responsibility for health care decisions on your shoulders. The following suggestions can help you take an active role in the medical decision-making process and your preparation for surgery, thus increasing the probability the procedure will have a positive outcome. Deciding on surgery: If your health care provider recommends that you have an operation, it's important you have as much information regarding the surgery as possible. Asking your provider questions can help you determine if surgery is right for you. Many people find it helpful to take notes or have a family member or friend with them when discussing these questions to help them remember the information their doctors provide.
Ask your doctor:
- Why do you think surgery is the best treatment?
- How will the surgery improve my health or quality of life?
- How long can I safely delay the surgery?
- What risks are involved?
- Does my health or age create a higher risk for complications?
- What's the risk for death with this surgery, in general? For me, considering my age and health?
- What sort of complications might arise? What are the chances?
- Could more surgery be necessary?
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- How long will I be in the hospital?
- What can I expect during recovery?
- What will my condition be when I go home?
- When can I resume my normal activities and go back to work?
- What, if any, limitations will I have after surgery?
Getting a second opinion from another health care provider also can help you make your decision. Having another physician review your case can verify your diagnosis and ensure surgery is preferable to other treatments. In addition, many health insurance companies require a second opinion and may require you to choose a doctor from its list of providers.
Publication Source: Vitality magazine/August 2004 Author: Floria, Barbara Online Source: National Women's Health Resource Center http://www.healthywomen.org/ Online Editor: Sinovic, Dianna Online Medical Reviewer: Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN Online Medical Reviewer: Lambert, J.G. M.D. Date Last Reviewed: 6/13/2006 Date Last Modified: 6/14/2006
