What risks are associated with a specific surgery?
June 15, 2023 | 70,00 EUR | answered by Jürgen Dietrich
Dear Doctor,
My name is Jenny Ullmann and I am facing the decision to undergo a surgical operation. I have been suffering from severe abdominal pain for some time and my treating physician has advised me to consider surgery to alleviate my symptoms. However, I am concerned about the risks associated with such surgery and would like to learn more in order to make an informed decision.
I have already done some research on the internet, but the information on potential risks is often conflicting and confusing. I have heard that complications such as infections, bleeding, or nerve damage may occur, but I am not sure how likely these risks are in my specific case. I am also worried about potential long-term effects of the operation and how my life may change after the procedure.
Therefore, I would like to ask you what specific risks are associated with the planned surgery and how likely it is that they may occur. Are there measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of complications? Are certain pre-existing conditions or medications a risk factor for the surgery? And are there alternative treatment methods that I should consider?
I thank you in advance for your time and expertise. Your information will help me make an informed decision about my health.
Sincerely,
Jenny Ullmann
Dear Ms. Ullmann,
Thank you for your detailed inquiry and your trust in my expertise as a surgeon. It is understandable that you are concerned about the risks of a surgical operation and want to gather comprehensive information in order to make an informed decision.
When planning a surgical operation, it is important to consider the potential risks and complications. General risks of surgery include infections, bleeding, nerve damage, wound healing problems, anesthesia complications, and thromboembolic events such as blood clots. These risks can vary depending on the type of operation, individual health status, and other factors.
To minimize the risk of complications, it is important for you to take certain steps before the operation. These steps include a thorough medical examination to identify potential risk factors, optimizing your health before the procedure, such as managing pre-existing conditions and adjusting certain medications, and following preoperative and postoperative care instructions.
Certain pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, or autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of complications during surgery. It is important for you to provide your treating physician with all relevant information about your medical history so that they can assess the risks appropriately.
In some cases, alternative treatment methods such as conservative therapies or minimally invasive procedures may be an option to avoid or delay surgical interventions. However, this decision depends on the nature of your condition and your individual health status.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the decision to undergo surgery is an individual and personal choice that should be carefully considered. I recommend discussing thoroughly with your treating physician to consider all aspects of your health and find the best treatment option for you together.
I hope that this information will assist you in your decision-making process. If you have any further questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Jürgen Dietrich
