META: Before going into surgery, it’s important that you understand the process and recovery as well as the risks. Here are 5 questions to ask your surgeon before a major operation.
If you require surgery for anything it can be a scary process, whether it’s minor invasive surgery at an outpatinet’s clinic, or for a major procedure such as abdominal surgery. When it comes to major operations, there’s plenty of things that you’ll want to know in advance to ensure you have peace of mind.
It can also benefit your next of kin and friends and family to help them understand as you go through a difficult time so they can support you.
Here are 5 questions to ask your surgeon before a major operation.
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What the Procedure Involves
Once you know what your operation is for and that you’re booked in, before making any decisions and agreeing to go ahead to get the surgery, it’s integral that you understand what the procedure involves. This can be the process of how they are going to operate and any equipment that you need to be aware of.
With the advancement of technology, there is new equipment being used each day to help insure uninvasive, safer and more advanced procedures. The use of 3D modelling, simulation techniques and advanced medical engineering and equipment such as a self retaining retractor can enhance the process and can be explained so that you understand what the surgery will entail.
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How Do I Prepare in Advance?
When going into surgery, it’s important to know what to do beforehand. Often, Doctors will advise you not to eat before a major operation and it may be likely that you need someone with you afterwards and to take you home safely.
In addition, you may want to ask about what to bring with you to the hospital. It’s an important question to ask so that you’re fully prepared and nothing comes as a shock before, during and after the surgery.
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What are the Risks Involved?
With any surgery, risks are involved. However, it’s really important you fully understand the risks pertaining to your specific surgery. This could include any complications that can happen during the surgery or any specific actions you can take to prevent them or infections.
The main types of risk include a reaction to the anaesthetic, any pain, nerve damage or internal bleeding. If you are on blood thinners, for example, this can increase the risks.
Understanding the risks can help you make an informed decision on the process of your treatment.
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How Long Will the Surgery Take?
It’s key to understand how long the surgery will take so that your loved ones know when to wait and what to do. They can come and collect you and wait to make sure everything goes smoothly.
It’s also good to understand for your sake so you are clear on the procedure, how long you’ll be under and know the full operation for your own peace of mind.
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What’s the Recovery Process?
The recovery process is key for you to understand before a major operation. This is important so you know how long it’ll take for you to get back to full health. You may need physio, or the help from loved ones. You also may be required to take time off work and asking these questions can help everyone prepare so you can heal and recover properly without any additional problems.
Conclusion
Understanding the process, recovery, and preparation before a major operation can help give you peace of mind during a difficult and scary time. Asking the right questions, like the 5 above, can be integral to ensuring you have a successful surgery and a happy and healthy recovery.