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 nonsurgical 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 center? 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 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC 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 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.