Surgery is a big step to take when it comes to your health. It typically involves using invasive techniques to repair a problem that cannot be repaired with conservative treatments. While getting surgery is common, it is a big decision that you shouldn’t take lightly. Make sure to educate yourself as much as possible about your injury or illness, as well as the procedure you’re getting done, prior to surgery.
Is It the Best Option for You?
Oftentimes, surgery is the last resort when it comes to the treatment of an illness or injury. Ask your doctor whether surgery is the best treatment option available to you. You also have knowledge of what happens during surgery, so you’ll know what to expect. Every surgery is different and the surgical techniques used on another patient may not be the same as what is best for you. Ask your doctor why this surgery/technique is the best option for you and what are its benefits.
Besides, there may be other less invasive options for your condition. Ask your doctor about alternatives to the surgery. If you have arthritis, you may be able to delay surgery with other treatment methods, with the use of interventional medicine or regenerative medicine. In cases where surgery is the only option, make sure to discuss the risks of the surgery.
Get Involved in Pre-Operative Planning
Much planning goes on before surgery. For instance, deciding on whether to use general anesthesia or local anesthesia is one. General anesthesia means you will be unconscious throughout the procedure. You will be asked to undergo some tests and obtain medical clearance from other specialists if you need general anesthesia. It is during pre-operative planning that you get to ask last-minute questions you may have about the procedure. You will also be given detailed instructions on what not to eat or drink before surgery and what to eat afterward. Sometimes, patients are able to prepare for surgery by losing weight or doing pre-surgery physical therapy.
Learn and Prepare for the Recovery Period
There is a period of immobilization after surgery that you should be aware of. During the early stages of recovery, you may have function and mobility limitations and may need to use assistive devices, such as a cane or a walker for hip or knee surgery or a sling for shoulder surgery. When you are ready, physical therapy will begin. You need to plan for recovery and may need the assistance of another person or a caregiver during the first few weeks at least. Ask your doctor about the typical length of time it takes to recover from the specific surgery you are having done.
In many cases, you have to make adjustments to your home to assist in recovery. You may need to refrain from going up or down stairs, move furniture around to make it easy for you to use a walker in the home, or move things you use regularly from high or low shelves.
Outpatient Surgery Center in Naples, FL
North Naples Surgery Center is an ultra-modern outpatient surgery center with the most qualified and highly-experienced orthopedic surgeons on the team. We specialize in minimally invasive surgical techniques addressing a broad range of general and orthopedic conditions.
We let our patients know their options for treatment and make sure they understand the benefits and risks associated with surgery. We like our patients informed and empowered to make decisions about their health care. If you have questions or to set up an appointment with one of our orthopedic surgeons, call (239) 529-2811.
