If you are set to undergo an elective spinal procedure, you probably have a number of questions about the procedure and your recovery. This is perfectly normal, and we want to be your resource for any questions that you have. You also may be wondering if there are any questions that you should be asking of your provider so that you are best prepared to knock your recovery out of the park. We want to help with this process, so in today’s blog, we spotlight some of the more helpful questions you should consider asking your surgeon ahead of your spinal operation.
Ask These Six Questions Before Spine Surgery
Here’s a look at six questions that most patients find helpful to ask of their surgeon before they head in for their operation.
- Can You Explain The Procedure And Why It’s The Recommended Treatment? – It’s helpful to get a basic understanding of what will be performed during your operation, but it’s also important to understand why it will be helpful. You may know that you have a degenerative spinal disc, but you will want to understand what is being done during the procedure and why the spinal fusion or disc replacement operation is being recommended by your provider. Learning more about the procedure and why it should correct your issue will help to reduce stress and anxiety before the operation.
- What Are The Potential Risks? – Every surgery carries some risk, and while we will do everything in our power to control these potential complications, it pays to at least be aware of some of the potential risks associated with the procedure. We can also explain how we will do our best to reduce your risk of any of these potential issues.
- What Will My Recovery Look Like? – It’s also helpful to get an understanding of what your recovery timeline will look like after surgery. Maybe you’ll be up on your feet within a day of surgery, while others will need weeks of healing before they can take on more physical tasks. It’s easier to plan your life and mentally prepare for your rehabilitation if you know what a standard recovery looks like.
- How Will We Manage Pain? – You should also have a conversation with your provider about pain control. Discuss what anesthetics will be used during the procedure and how your care team will help you manage discomfort during your recovery. If you have any concerns about opioids or managing post-op discomfort, now is the time to air those concerns.
- What Can I Do To Prepare For Surgery? – We want you to be as healthy as possible prior to your spine surgery, so there is plenty you can do in the leadup to your operation. Get regular exercise, improve your diet so that your body has access to plenty of healthy vitamins and minerals, and consider partaking in some prehab exercises. Ask your doctor what you can do to prepare for surgery, and odds are they’ll be happy to provide some helpful recommendations.
- What Will Life Look Like Assuming Surgery And Recovery Goes As Expected? – This is a good question to end with, because it sets the stage of an ideal operation and recovery. Assuming everything goes as planned, what can you expect at the end of all this? Will you be able to get back to specific physical activities or work without discomfort? Will you be ready for the upcoming sports season or a planned vacation? Finish your conversation by looking at how this surgery and your recovery will help you in the long term.
If you’re looking for a provider who can confidently answer all these questions and perform your elective spinal procedure, look no further than Dr. Jackman and his team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute. Give his team a call today at (651) 430-3800.
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