No matter what operation you’re about to undergo, odds are you are going to have a few questions for your surgeon and the medical team. Endocrine system surgery is no different, and you’ll likely have even more questions as removal of an organ or gland can take a big toll on your body. Whether you’re having your appendix removed or work done on your pancreas or thyroid gland, you’re going to have a lot on your mind. Here are some questions to ask your doctor that can help manage expectations and put your mind at ease prior to surgery.
Can you talk me through the entire procedure?
Your doctor may say that you need an appendectomy or thyroidectomy, but what does that really mean? Ask your doctor to walk you through the step-by-step process. If you know what to expect from the operation, you’ll find yourself worrying less about your time under the knife.
How can I prepare for surgery?
This is a great question because it shows your doctor that you are committed to putting yourself and your body in the best position for a successful operation. You may not have a lot of time to prepare for the operation, but you’ll want more in-depth answers than “no food or drink eight hours before surgery.” Ask about exercise and diet choices in the days leading up to the operation so your body can be at full strength heading into the operation.
How often have you performed the specific surgery, and what is the typical outcome?
You want to know that you’re in good hands before you get on the operating table, and your surgeon shouldn’t find it offensive that you want to learn a little more about their track record prior to the operation. Ask them when they last performed the operation, and how they would tackle any potential problems during the operation.
What is the expected recovery timeline?
Some surgeries can be performed on an outpatient basis, while other operations require overnight stays and some food or activity restrictions for a few weeks. Ask your doctor about your recovery timeline, including when you can leave, what to expect in the first few weeks after the operation, and when you can return to normal activities like school, work or sports.
What modifications will I need after the tissue is removed?
If you’re undergoing an appendectomy, you might not need to have any lifestyle or diet modifications once you’re fully recovered. For others, removal of some organs can change the way the body produces hormones or necessary bodily fluids. You might need to take supplements or avoid fatty foods for a while or for the foreseeable future, so talk with your doctor about how your life will be affected by the partial or full removal of something in your endocrine system.
