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5 Very Important Questions to Ask a Spine Doctor Before Surgery
January 19, 2021
If you’ve been diagnosed with a spine condition, you may have been told that you need surgery, too. For anyone, surgery can be a scary option.
But by speaking with your spine doctor, they can help you fully understand the procedure. Having an understanding can help you find comfort with spinal surgery.
One great way to do this is by going into your appointment with a list of spinal surgery questions for your doctor.
If you’re wondering what to ask before back surgery, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 5 of the most important questions that will help you ease any anxieties that you may have.
1. Can You Explain the Type of Back Surgery I Need?
Before going ahead with surgery, your doctor should tell you what type of surgery it is. They should also explain the procedure in detail so that you know exactly what it entails.
This is an important question to ask as there are many different types of procedures. Each one has its own purpose and is for a certain issue.
Also, ask for clarification or reasoning on how the procedure is done if you have any more questions. Don’t forget to also ask about recovery time.
Your spine surgeon is the expert, so be sure that you pick their brain until you fully understand.
2. Why Do You Believe That This Treatment Will Work for Me?
You must understand why your spine doctor is recommending this surgery.
By asking your doctor this, it gives them the chance to explain their informed decision on why they think this will work for you. They may tell you about a success story about the experience of another patient who went through the same surgery.
You should always make sure that the spine surgeon is doing what is best for you.
3. What Type of Risks and Complications Can Occur With This Surgery?
With any surgery, whether it’s minor or major, there are risks.
You should make sure that you’re prepared and understand the risks, no matter how serious. Your doctor should be able to provide you with this information.
They may even direct you to other resources for more information on associated complications.
4. What Can This Surgery Do to Improve My Life?
Just as there are risks, there are benefits too! If there weren’t, then your doctor wouldn’t recommend surgery at all.
Often, spine surgery patients experience less pain. You can ask your doctor what else this surgery will do to improve your quality of life.
If you’re not convinced, ask them if they have any patient success stories. Sometimes, this can put you at ease.
5. Have You Ever Performed This Surgery?
Experienced doctors have performed many different types of surgeries.
To feel more comfortable, you can ask your spine doctor if they’ve performed this type of surgery successfully.
If they have, that’s great! You can feel more comfortable about what they can do for you.
Find an Experienced Spine Doctor
Spinal surgery doesn’t have to be terrifying. With these 5 questions to ask before back surgery, you’re on your way to getting the information you need.
Our very own Dr. Andrew Moulton has 17 years of experience as a spine doctor in Clearwater, FL. If you’re looking for a qualified and experienced spine surgeon, you can trust him to help you.
Contact us today to book an appointment!