| According to the American College of Surgeons, the best way to go through any surgery is educate yourself and to be completely informed of all aspects associated with your procedure. The more knowledgeable you are the more confident and comfortable you’ll feel before and after the surgery.
Sometimes, the realization that surgery is required can be an overwhelming experience. To help you better prepare, the following are key questions you should ask your surgeon before scheduling your surgery. For your convenience, you may download a printable file of the questions below which you may bring to your appointment.
Before Surgery
- Why do I need joint surgery?
- Are there any other pain relief options for me that could work as well as surgery?
- How will the surgery be performed?
- What are the risks or possible complications of joint surgery?
- What are the benefits of joint surgery?
- Will my health history and the medications I am currently taking change the level of risks, possible complications and benefits?
- If I have joint surgery, how will it relieve my pain?
- Is joint surgery covered by my insurance?
- Will this procedure financially cost me, over and above anything paid by my insurance plan?
- If I have joint surgery, will you perform my surgery?
- Could you tell me about your experience with this particular surgical procedure?
- Do you perform this procedure frequently?
- What is your success rate, and how often do your patients experience any issues?
- If I decide to have joint replacement, which company’s product do you think will best serve my needs and why?
- Is any special preparation necessary (i.e. tests, blood donation, change in medication, etc.)?
- Will I need a special diet? When do I have to stop eating and/or drinking prior to surgery?
- Should I take my home medication(s) on the day of my operation?
- What can I expect the day of my surgery?
During Surgery
- What are my anesthesia options? What kind of anesthesia is best for me considering my health history, prescription medications and vitamins/herbs?
- How will I be monitored during the procedure?
- How long will I be in the hospital, and how soon after having surgery can I get back to normal daily activities?
After Surgery
- What should I do to manage the pain after the surgery?
- Will I need any special medication (i.e. antibiotics, pain medication, etc.)?
- After the procedure, will I see you or my regular doctor for follow-up care?
- What can I expect for my recovery in terms of treatment, medication, diet and home care?
- What can I do to help my own recovery?
- When will I be able to return to my regular activities (work, lifting, driving and exercise)?
- What kind of activities will I be able to participate in after joint surgery?
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