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If you need surgery, you don’t want just anyone at the helm of your operation. Surgeries are complex, and you want to feel confident that you’re working with a skilled and seasoned surgical team. As a patient, you’ll need to take initiative to ensure you’re getting the best care available. Keep reading to discover the four critical questions every patient should ask before a major surgery.
1. Are Less Invasive Treatments Available?
It’s easy to assume that surgery is your only option. But it’s important to ask if less invasive alternatives could help first. Maybe you can try physical therapy before turning to surgery for musculoskeletal issues, for instance. Sometimes exercises, like yoga, can help ease stiffness. Or perhaps medications might work well in other scenarios rather than surgery. You’ll be able to save on costs by avoiding surgery, as well as risks.
It’s best to ask your surgeon if you’ve exhausted all other options. Additionally, ask if your condition might require a more advanced surgical procedure, such as a corpectomy. This spine surgery involves removing part of a vertebra to relieve spinal cord or nerve compression caused by conditions like herniated discs, stenosis, or trauma.
2. What Is the Degree of Risk?
All surgeries have risks. But how significant are they? It’s fair to ask your medical team what the primary risks are and how they are working to prevent them. Sometimes risks can lead to big problems, like blood clots. And some risks can result in long-term issues for patients after surgeries, such as nerve damage, scarring, or organ damage.
When you ask a surgeon to describe the risks, ask for statistics, too. They should be able to present detailed information and reassure you that the surgery is worth the risks. As a patient, understand that knowledge is power. Gather as much information as possible to make an informed choice. For patients interested in exploring alternative recovery aids, you can shop THCP products at Delta Munchies.
3. Have You Completed This Procedure Before?
You want to be confident that you have an experienced surgeon operating on you. They should be familiar with the procedure and have a track record of successful outcomes. You can ask your surgeon about their specific training related to the type of surgery you’re receiving. Ask how many times they’ve completed the procedure. And confirm that they are surrounded by seasoned nurses and other doctors during the surgery.
4. How Long Will Recovery Be?
Every surgery brings different demands when it comes to recovery. Your surgeon should provide a detailed guide that shows you what to anticipate. How long will you be in the hospital after the procedure? And what type of follow-up care will you need? If you work in a job that is physically taxing, you may need to wait before resuming your typical responsibilities.
Depending on your surgery, you may require significant rehabilitation. You may be restricted from lifting heavy weights, including children, too, for weeks or months after your surgery. Make sure you’re aware of the restrictions so you can help recovery move along efficiently.
Ask the Right Questions
Surgery can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be if you ask the right questions. It’s critical to know what the surgery itself entails, as well as how your recovery journey will look. Make sure you’re working with expert surgeons skilled in your specific procedure. And communicate with your surgical team so you’re comfortable with the process.
