Question your Surgeon
Posted by
Dan FrithJanuary 13, 2008 12:09 PMAre you getting ready to go under the knife...the surgical knife? If so, shouldn't you be informed about your surgeon? Many people would not think of buying a car or a new computer without asking questions...lots of questions. Why don't those same smart and informed people ask their surgeons the same types of questions?
Dr. Thomas Russell, a surgeon and executive director of the American College of Surgeons believes, "patients should feel free to ask their surgeon anything they want answered about the operation or the surgeon's competency to perform it." In a new book to be published this month, "I Need an Operation...Now What," Dr. Russell provides patients with a list of questions for surgeons including their success rates, how many operations they perform in a year, and whether they have any health issues which would interfere with their ability to perform the operation.
I tip my hat to Dr. Russell! Be an informed consumer of medical care. If your doctor will not take the time to answer these types of questions or is offended by them...it is time to find another doctor!
Other sources for questions you should ask can be found at:
SpineUniverse.com - offers questions related to all types of back surgeries.
Breastcancer.org - provides a list of questions to ask before making decisions about mastectomies and lumpectomies.
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery - encourages patients to check out their doctor's qualifications and credentials before undergoing cosmetic surgery.
For more information on this subject, please refer to our section on Medical Malpractice and Negligent Care.