Surgery: Questions to Ask the Doctor
Topic Overview
Print this form and fill in the information if your doctor recommends that you have a surgical procedure.
General questions
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What is the name of the surgical procedure? |
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Why do I need surgery? |
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How soon should surgery take place? |
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What might happen if I delay or avoid the surgery? |
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What results should I expect from the surgery? |
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Are there any nonsurgical options? Yes ___ No___ If yes, describe: Are there any less invasive surgery options? |
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What is the next step if this surgery doesn’t work? |
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How much does the surgery cost? How can I find out? |
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Can it be done on an outpatient basis, and is that less expensive? |
Questions to ask about the procedure
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What kind of preparation is needed for surgery? |
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Where will surgery be done?
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How is the surgery done (laparoscopy or open surgery)? |
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What kind of anesthesia will be used (general, local, or regional)? |
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How long will the procedure take? |
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How successful is this procedure? |
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What are the risks associated with this surgery? |
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How much experience does the surgeon have with this procedure? |
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Has the procedure been done often in this hospital or surgery center? Yes ___ No___ |
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What complications might develop (both immediate and long-term)? |
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If a biopsy is being done, when can I expect to hear the results, and will my doctor call me? |
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Other questions: |
Questions to ask about what to expect after surgery
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How long will I have to stay after surgery? |
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How will I feel after surgery? |
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How much pain is there after this type of surgery? How is it treated? |
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How long will it take to recover from surgery? |
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Other questions: |
Questions to ask about what to expect when you get home
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What kind of care will I need at home? Are there any activity limitations? |
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How soon can I eat a regular meal? |
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How soon can I resume regular activities? |
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What symptoms should I watch for and report? |
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Other questions: |
Reminders
- Ask for other information about the surgery.
- Ask about a second opinion.
- Ask how much the surgery will cost and if there are ways to reduce the costs.
- State any concerns you have about having the surgery.
Current as of: December 13, 2018
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier, MD – Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & Kenneth Bark, MD – General Surgery, Colon and Rectal Surgery
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