Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Situation 3: When Surgery Has Been Recommended

About the Procedure

• Specifically, what surgery would be performed?
• How long will the surgery take?
• Will it be under general anesthesia?
• Will metal implants be placed?
• Will an endoscope or microscope be used?

About Risks

• What are the risks of surgery?
• What are the complication rates?
• Is there a chance the nerves could be damaged?
• What is the infection risk?
• Might reoperation be needed?

About Expected Outcomes

• How much improvement can I expect from surgery?
• What is the success rate?
• How much will my pain decrease?
• Will my walking distance improve?
• Is there a chance the surgery will not help?

About Recovery

• How long will I be in the hospital?
• How long until I can walk again?
• When can I return to work?
• When can I return to normal daily life?
• Will I need rehabilitation?

About Life After Surgery

• Will there be any restrictions after surgery?
• Can I exercise?
• Can the condition come back?
• Will I need regular follow-up visits?

About Your Surgeon

• How many of these surgeries have you performed?
• What are the surgical outcomes at this hospital?

Other Questions

• Is it all right to get a second opinion?
• Are there any alternatives to surgery?
• Can I wait a bit longer?
• If I do have surgery, when would be the best time?