Basics
Preparing for Surgery
Every year more than 15 million people in the U.S. have surgery. There are many reasons to have surgery. Some operations can relieve or prevent pain. Others can reduce a symptom of a problem or improve some body function. Some surgeries are done to find a problem. For example, a surgeon may do a... »
Same-Day Surgery: What You Should Know
If you need surgery, there’s a better-than-average chance that you’ll have it and go home the same day. That’s good news for several reasons, but same-day surgery does require some planning on your part. Thanks to advances in technology and anesthesia, nearly 6 of every 10 surgeries performed at hospitals are done as “outpatient”... »
Having Surgery: What You Need to Know
This article is for patients who are facing surgery that is not an emergency. Some of the questions in this document may help you and your family understand more about your surgery, whether it has to be done right away or can be done later. Your doctor or nurse also can help you understand... »
What to Know When Considering Surgery
Have you been told by your doctor that you need surgery? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of older Americans have surgery each year. For most surgeries, you will have time to find out about the operation, talk about other treatments with your surgeon (medical doctor who does the operation), and decide what to... »
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
Take this list of questions with you when you go to your doctor or surgeon to discuss your surgery: What operation are you recommending? Why do I need the operation? Are there alternatives to surgery? What are the benefits of having the operation? What are the risks of having the operation? What if I... »