Surgery: Questions to Ask the Doctor

Print this 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

• Where will surgery be done?
  • Outpatient location:
  • Hospital:
• 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.