Dr. Christopher Yeung is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, with a special interest in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques with a philosophy of choosing the least invasive yet most effective method to treat spine problems.
Any surgery can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t undergone one before. It’s natural to have questions about the process, including before-and-after care, to ensure a smooth process. Asking questions about your surgery can help prepare you for the event and provide peace of mind. Below are questions you may want to ask your surgeon before the procedure.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
First, it is critical to gather comprehensive information about your diagnosis. Spine consultation questions for your diagnosis could include:
Why do I need surgery?: If your provider recommends spine surgery, you should understand the need for it and what problems it could solve. In many cases, spine surgery can result in pain relief, restored function and improved quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with prolonged discomfort, constant pain or a severe condition, it is essential to address the problem quickly and effectively.
What are the long-term side effects or complications?: You should understand the long-term implications of the condition you’re facing and your surgery. Determine how your spine condition could impact your mental, physical and emotional health. Understand how surgery can ease your concerns and improve your well-being. Ask whether you will need additional surgeries or follow-up procedures.
Should I get a second opinion?: Getting a second opinion before spine surgery can reinforce the need for a specific treatment plan or help you identify other options. Either way, you may feel more at ease with your decision and care plan. You can request a virtual second opinion with a trusted provider or ask for recommendations from your current provider.
Evaluating Treatment Options
In many cases, several treatment options will be available, and it’s important to understand all of them. Here’s what you should ask during your spine consultation:
Are there other options?: Determine every option available to you. Ask what your provider recommends and related questions about who can perform each surgery or locations where you can request these treatments. Voice any concerns you have and speak thoroughly and honestly to determine which treatment is best for your condition.
How much does each option cost?: Cost should not drive your ultimate decision, as finding relief and easing prolonged pain is crucial for your body and happiness. However, it’s important to consider whether your healthcare insurance provider will cover treatment options and determine other ways to cover the cost of surgery to avoid financial stress.
When can I get surgery?: Ask about the timeline for your surgery, including any pre-procedure requirements. Some conditions may require immediate attention, while others may take weeks or months of waiting before completing the procedure. You may also be able to schedule your treatment to align with your schedule, depending on the severity of your condition and facility availability.
Assessing Surgical Procedures
Once you’ve narrowed down your treatment options, it’s time to ask questions about your final choice. These questions can provide peace of mind and ensure you choose a knowledgeable, experienced and skillful surgeon:
What are the success rates?: Success rates can give you an idea of how often the procedure achieves the desired outcome. Inquire about general patient success rates for the surgery you’re considering.
What is your experience with surgery?: Ask about surgical techniques and how many patients your surgeon has completed the same or similar procedures on. Verify relevant information about the surgeon’s educational background, certifications, years of experience and specialized training. This information can further ease your concerns regarding the procedure.
Are there associated risks or side effects?: Every medical procedure has the potential to cause long-term side effects. Ask your provider about these possibilities so you can prepare for them or take action to prevent adverse outcomes. Your provider should detail any specific concerns regarding your unique health information and spine condition.
Preparing for Surgery
In some cases, you may need to make small changes a day or two before your surgery or more significant lifestyle adjustments to increase your chances of success. Questions to ask before spine surgery should include:
Are there any restrictions before surgery?: Some surgeries may require you to avoid food and drink for 12 to 24 hours prior to surgery. In some cases, you may also need to stop taking certain medications to avoid negative interactions with anesthetics and reduce the risk of bleeding. It is crucial to follow your provider’s instructions.
Should I make changes to my home?: Your home should support your recovery needs, complete with any supplies to make the process easier and more comfortable. Ask for advice to create this space. Should you avoid walking on the stairs or sleeping in certain positions? Will you need someone to stay with you during the recovery period? Determine your needs and make changes accordingly.
How long will I be in the hospital after surgery?: Determine the length of your hospital stay to ensure you can make proper arrangements. Ask if you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure and recovery.
Navigating Post-Surgery Care and Follow-Ups
Following your provider’s recommendations is critical for healing. Whether you need to take medications, schedule additional appointments or make lifestyle changes, follow these instructions carefully. Consider these questions:
Will I need to take pain medication or wear a brace?: You may need painkillers to relieve pain after surgery or a back brace to support your spine as you heal. Ensure you understand the proper use of all healing aids.
What will follow-up care look like?: You’ll likely need to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor recovery progress. Ask about appointment frequency and how long they’ll take. Also, ask if you will need other follow-up care, such as physical therapy or lifestyle changes to maintain spine health.
When can I return to normal activities?: Ask about activities you can complete while recovering and when you can return to regular activities. Do not rush your recovery to get back to work or complete tasks at home. Take your time and adhere to your provider’s guidelines.
Why Trust Us for Spine Surgery?
At Desert Institute for Spine Care, you can find a compassionate, knowledgeable team ready to help you enjoy life again. Our surgeons are leaders in minimally invasive spine care with extensive spine training and treatment experience. Our team trains others in these procedures across the world. With cutting-edge surgical techniques and a customized approach for each patient, you can feel at ease in our care.
If you’re battling back pain, we can help you understand your spinal condition and determine the best treatment for relieving pain and restoring your lifestyle. Don’t just take our word for it — local patients and those who have traveled for our services can detail their experiences with our team and the impact their procedures had on their lives.
We offer an extensive array of treatment options, leverage innovative surgical solutions, train the world’s most elite surgeons and provide dedicated, customized care to each patient. If you’re experiencing back pain, trust our team to help you uncover the least invasive treatment option.
Seek Spinal Treatment From DISC
As leaders in minimally invasive spine care, we have the knowledge, skill and passion to help you find treatments for long-lasting spinal relief. Schedule a consultation with a spine specialist from our team to explore your options.
