surgery: questions to ask the doctor
overview
print this form and fill in the information if your doctor recommends that you have a surgical procedure.
general questions
what is the name of the surgical procedure? |
why do i need surgery? |
how soon should 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? yes ___ no___ 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? |
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 surgery be done?
|
how is the surgery done (laparoscopy or open surgery)? |
what kind of anesthesia will be used (general, local, or regional)? |
how long will the procedure take? |
how successful is this procedure? |
what are the risks associated with this surgery? |
how much experience does the surgeon have with this procedure? |
has the procedure been done often in this hospital or surgery centre? yes ___ no___ |
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? |
other questions: |
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? |
other questions: |
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? |
how soon can i eat a regular meal? |
how soon can i resume regular activities? |
what symptoms should i watch for and report? |
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.
credits
current as of: july 26, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: july 26, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
