Information for patients
What to ask the specialist
It is likely that most of the following questions will be discussed at the time of consultation with your specialist, but it's a good idea to use the questions as a checklist. Note that some questions relate only to surgeons.
- What may happen to me if I do not have the procedure you suggest?
- Can you describe exactly what you intend to do?
- How necessary is this procedure?
- How urgent is this procedure?
- How long will I have to wait for my procedure?
- How long do you expect the procedure to take?
- What type of anaesthetic will I need to have, general or local?
- What are the risks associated with the procedure?
- What are the risks associated with the anaesthetic?
- Will I need a blood transfusion?
- Will you or someone else be performing the actual operation?
- At which hospital will the operation be done?
- Do you do many of these operations?
- Will I need any tests before the operation? What are they?
- Is there anything I should or should not do before my operation?
- How long will I be in hospital?
- What happens after the operation? How can I expect to feel after the operation?
- What sort of follow up care will I need after I leave hospital?
- How long will I be away from work or unable to perform the routine tasks that I now do?
- How much will it cost me? (operation, tests, post-op visits, total)
- Are there any alternatives to the surgery for me?
- What should I do if my condition gets worse while I am waiting for the surgery?