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Is Surgery Right for Me?
When something isn’t functioning how it should, human nature is to find the quickest way to remedy that problem. The same goes for our bodies — often when dealing with medical conditions, we look for fast, easy, and convenient solutions so we can get back to our normal lives as quickly as possible.
But the truth is life doesn’t always work like that. Sometimes the chronic issues we deal with require a more intensive solution than just a bandage and a dose of ibuprofen can fix. After all possible fixes have been exhausted and you’re still dealing with the same issues, the time may be right to talk to your healthcare provider about surgery.
What types of surgery does Culbertson provide?
Culbertson Memorial Hospital provides a wide range of surgeries, which are usually conducted as a form of laparoscopic surgery. This type of surgery is minimally invasive and performed by making one or two small incisions in the abdominal cavity, through which an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted to allow the surgeon to view the structures within the abdomen and pelvis. This method can be used for numerous types of surgery, including appendectomies, cholecystectomies (gall bladder removals), and hernia repairs. Laparoscopic surgeries generally result in shorter hospital stays with smaller abdominal scars — if any at all — and usually decrease the risk of post-op complications such as infections.
When should I get surgery?
As previously mentioned, surgery should be considered once all other options have been exhausted. This includes medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes. If these don’t fix your condition or ease your pain, it may be time to talk to your healthcare provider about surgery.
The biggest question you should ask yourself before receiving surgery is, “Will this improve my quality of life?” If your provider believes surgery could improve your everyday life, then surgery should be an option. If not, you may need to explore other options.
What can I expect at my surgery?
Before your surgery, you will meet with an anesthetist to discuss types of anesthesia that will be used. You’ll also meet with an operating room nurse to discuss OR procedures and some pre-op procedures will be performed by nurses and technicians. You may be given medicine to make you drowsy. Before your surgery, make sure the nursing staff knows who your family is and where they will be.
During surgery, family members can wait in your room or in a designated waiting area. After the surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room where a nurse will monitor your vital signs to ensure you’re stable. While in recovery, you may receive intravenous fluids or oxygen. Hospital personnel will let your family know when they can see you. Before you are discharged, you may be given instructions or a prescription for medication to minimize the risk of post-op complications or infections.
After you are discharged, a surgical nurse will call to check how you are feeling. Should any questions arise before the nurse calls, be sure to write them down so you don’t forget.
Talk to your provider.
While surgery can be inconvenient, it can result in a better quality of life than you had before. After you’ve exhausted all other treatments, talk to your healthcare provider and see if surgery can make a difference in your life.