My Surgeon Visit: Questions to Ask about Surgery

You have taken the first important step in moving toward an active life. By making an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon (def.)Orthopaedic Surgeon (Orthopaedic Specialist) orthopaedic surgeon specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the body's bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons (musculoskeletal disorders.) , you are on your way to finding a solution for your shoulder pain and immobility.

At your appointment, you and your surgeon will discuss ways to manage your symptoms, including the possibility of surgery. Naturally, you have many questions.

To make it easier for you to communicate with your surgeon, we've prepared a list of questions. Print out the list, take it with you to your doctor's visit, and write in your surgeon's responses.

My Surgeon Visit Questionnaire

View print-friendly worksheet

• What is my diagnosis?
• How did it happen?
• Will my shoulder problem get better on its own without surgery?
• What other therapies such as medications or exercise can I use if I don't want surgery?
• What may I expect if I don't have surgery?
• How does the procedure work?
• Is there an age limit to my shoulder surgery?
• Will my insurance cover my surgery and rehabilitation?
• Will you be doing the surgery? How many of my type of surgical procedure have you performed?
  
  • What have been the outcomes?
• Will the surgery relieve my pain and restore mobility?
• What are the possible risks or complications of my surgery?
• What will I need to do to prepare for my surgery?
  
  • Discontinue medications (prescription or over-the-counter)?
  • Discontinue vitamins/herbal supplements?
  • Fast?
  • Other preoperative preparations?
• Is this an outpatient procedure or will I stay in the hospital?
• When will I be able to return to work and my usual daily activities?
• What type of rehabilitation will be necessary?
• How soon will I be able to:
  
  • drive
  • take a shower
  • participate in physical activities
• What position should I sleep in?
• Surgeon's name
• Office address
• Phone
• My insurance