First Visit With Surgeon

[readsforfun]

Hi all! First I want to thank everyone for all the kind words and warm thoughts I have not only received personally, but have perused going out to everyone on this wonderful site.

Next - as an update on my situation: the CT scan on my lungs showed that one lung was absolutely clear and the other had one very small spot that was so small (according to the radiologist) that they wouldn't be able to do a needle biopsy on it even if they wanted to. So-o-o, they suggested I wait for 4 months, get a pulmonary specialist and another CT Scan at that point to see how/if it has changed. In the meantime, "get on with the valve replacement!"

So, I now have an appt. with my 1st choice of a surgeon on Monday, 1/29, to discuss everything that needs to be discussed and answer questions. Obviously, I want to discuss "valve choice", which being 64 years old is of major importance to me. Actually, having said that, I'm sure it's of major importance to everyone regardless of age. But, as for other questions, sure, I have some, but am I asking the RIGHT questions? Marguerite53 suggested I start a thread (and possibly be referred to a past thread) requesting some thoughts on good questions to ask on a first visit to a surgeon. Therefore, that's what I'm doing. Any advice from you wonderful people?

Jan

 

[Phyllis]

Jan,
Here's a thread with a pretty good list of questions for the surgeon:http://valvereplacement.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17988&highlight=questions+surgeon
Hope this helps.

 

[StretchL]

Hi. Just my 2¢, but, if you're committed to the surgeon, I would ask which valve he's most familiar with implanting and go with that. On the flip side, if you're committed to a particular prosthesis or procedure, I'd find the surgeon based on the valve.

Best wishes as you make this journey!

 

[Magic8Ball]

Yep, prepare a list of questions, the above link is a great start.

However, a good surgeon will talk you through the procedure, risks etc and leave you feeling like you have no questions left to ask. I spent over an hour with my surgeon of choice and felt totally at ease when he had finished. I think that of my two pages of questions i had prepared i was left to ask two of them that he hadn't covered.

If the guy you see wants you in and out in 20 minutes he's not the right guy.

Regards.

 

[readsforfun]

Phyllis: Thanks so much for referring me to that thread for the "discussion suggestions". Great info there!

And Stretch: I have heard such positive things about my choice for surgeon that I most likely will heavily consider his favorite. If not I will certainly take your advice about looking for a surgeon who would favor my valve choice.

Thank you both, very much.
Jan

 

[Marguerite53]

Hi Jan. I'm so glad that you got to that link in our forums... Phyllis is very dependable!!

Also, great advice so far from others, too! Maybe there will be some more insights coming before tomorrow's visit. If not, I think you are already much more prepared for this. Please come back and let us know how it went for you. Always valuable information to be shared.

Good luck! I hope you like him!!

Marguerite