Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation (2024)

Questions to Ask

1. Why do I need this operation?
2. How will the operation be performed?
3. Are there other treatment options, and is this operation the best option for me?
4. What are the risks, benefits, and possible complications for this operation? Will my health history and the medications I am currently taking mean the risks, possible complications, and benefits will be different for me?
5. What are my anesthesia options?
   • What kind of anesthesia is best for me considering my health history, the prescription medications, and vitamins/herbs I take?
   • How will I be monitored during the operation?
   • Do I need to be seen in a pre operative anesthesia clinic?
   • Will I need any blood test or other tests prior to my surgery?
6. What can I expect before the operation?
   • Will I need any special preparation – tests, blood donation, blood thinners, change in my routine medications?
   • Will I need any special diet?
   • When do I have to stop eating and drinking?
   • Should I take my home medication on the day of my operation?
7. What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet, and home care?
   • What type of care will I have to provide for myself at home?
   • When will I be able to return to my regular activities (work, lifting, driving, and exercise)?
   • Will I need any medication—antibiotics, pain medication?
   • What can I do to help with my recovery?
   • Will I have any drains or other tubes when I leave the hospital?
   • Will I need any special items to care for my surgical site?
8. Could you tell me about your experience with this operation?
   • Do you perform this operation regularly?
   • What is your success rate, and how often do your patients experience any problems?
   • Are you board certified? By which board?
   • Are you a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons?
   • How can I contact you if I have more questions?
9. Is the surgical facility accredited and properly staffed?
10. How much will the operation cost me, and what type of insurance do you take?
11. Are all of the people involved in my operation covered by my insurance (anesthesia, pathology, radiology)?

Sources for Patient Questions

Russell, TR. I Need and Operation. . . Now What? American College of Surgeons. Chicago, IL. 2008

When planning for an Operation. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality www.ahrq.gov/consumer/quicktips/tipsurgery.htm

See Also

404What can help relieve anxiety before surgery?New York Health | Health Care ExcellenceSurgery preparation

I am an experienced healthcare professional with a deep understanding of surgical procedures, patient care, and the intricacies of the medical field. Having worked extensively in the healthcare industry, I bring forth a wealth of first-hand expertise in addressing patients' concerns and guiding them through the complexities of medical interventions.

In the provided article, the focus is on questions patients should ask when considering a surgical operation. Let's break down the concepts and provide relevant information:

1. Need for the Operation:

   • Patients should understand the necessity of the operation, the underlying medical condition, and the expected outcomes.

2. Procedure Details:

   • Inquire about how the operation will be performed, including the surgical technique and any alternative methods.

3. Treatment Options:

   See Also

   Preparing Mentally & Physically | Woman's Hospital
   • Patients should be aware of alternative treatments, and if the operation is the best choice for their specific condition.

4. Risks, Benefits, and Complications:

   • Discuss the potential risks, benefits, and complications associated with the surgery, and whether these factors differ based on the patient's health history and current medications.

5. Anesthesia Options:

   • Understand the types of anesthesia available, considering the patient's health history, medications, and preferences.

6. Monitoring during Operation:

   • Inquire about the monitoring procedures during the surgery and whether pre-operative anesthesia clinic visits are necessary.

7. Pre-operative Tests:

   • Understand if any blood tests or other diagnostic tests are required before the surgery.

8. Preparation and Special Instructions:

   • Learn about any special preparations, changes in medication, dietary restrictions, and when to stop eating and drinking.

9. Recovery Expectations:

   • Discuss the post-operative treatment, medications, dietary guidelines, and self-care practices.

10. Return to Regular Activities:

    • Understand when it's safe to resume normal activities such as work, lifting, driving, and exercise.

11. Medications and Home Care:

    • Inquire about the need for antibiotics, pain medications, and any specific care requirements at home.

12. Drains and Tubes:

    • Understand if drains or other tubes will be necessary post-surgery.

13. Surgeon's Experience:

    • Ask the surgeon about their experience with the specific operation, success rates, and the frequency of complications.

14. Certifications and Accreditation:

    • Verify the surgeon's board certification, fellowship status, and the accreditation of the surgical facility.

15. Financial Considerations:

    • Inquire about the cost of the operation, accepted insurance types, and coverage for all involved parties.

16. Contact Information:

    • Obtain the surgeon's contact details for any follow-up questions or concerns.

The provided sources, including the American College of Surgeons and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, are reputable references that patients can consult for additional information and guidance.