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?
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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?
- Outpatient location:
- Hospital:
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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:
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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:
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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:
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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: August 22, 2019
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
Current as of: August 22, 2019
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
