Questions for the Doc

I have my pre-op appointment in less than week and have compiled a list of questions that I have for my doc about surgery, as well as what to expect afterwards.

• Will I see you (doc) the morning of, prior to the surgery? Yes
  
• What type of procedure is being used? Ganz, Smith-Petersen approach, etc.
• How long is the surgery? 5+ hours
• How long is the hospital stay? 4-6 days
• How long will I be on crutches? 8 weeks no weight-bearing, 12 weeks weight-bearing
• How long till I can drive? Minimum of 8 weeks
• How will pain management work during and after the hospital stay? PCA pump w/ morphine or dilaudid; After discharge: norco
  
• Will anti-nausea meds be administered as well? Pain meds make me sick... zofran or phenergan
  
• Will I need the blood-thinner shots? Yes, 2 wks.
  
• Will I need a foley-catheter? When will it be put in? Yes, it will be put in after I am put to sleep and be in for about 2 days
  
• Will an epidural or general anaesthesia be used? General
  
• Stitches or staples? Does one leave less of a scar? Glue; 9-10 in. scar
  
• When will I be able to take a shower, get the wound wet, etc.? Can take a shower and get the wound wet after about 5 days
  
• How often will I have PT? A little the first few weeks and increased at about 6 wks.
  
• Will I be able to swim for physical therapy? Yes, after about 3-4 wks.
  
• When or if are the screws are removed? The screws can be removed but it is not medically necessary
  
• How long will I need to wear the TED stockings? 2 wks.
  
• Is nerve damage possible?
• Blood loss/conservation? Donated 2 pints of blood @ Indiana Blood Center
  
• Can this cause symptoms in my other hip? If it does, will I need surgery on the left hip as well? Not likely
  
• Will I need/get handicap placards? Yes
  
• Would ambulance transport home be beneficial or more appropriate? Yes

I have a lot of questions for my doc because I feel as if many things have gone unanswered or were not explained to begin with...I am hoping that after this appointment, not only will I feel better prepared, but my mind will be more at ease.

*After I met with my doctor, I was able to get my questions answered and note some of my concerns with the upcoming procedure. I feel a lot better now that I have my questions answered and know more of what is to be come...