Skip to main content

Convincing A Hesitant Patient For Surgery.... for the patient's good!


One of the challenges we face as Orthopaedic Surgeons is to make the patients understand the need for surgery and make them agree. This is more so in elective surgeries like Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy for Ligament Injuries, Spine surgery for Disc Prolapse etc.

I understand it can be very difficult to face the idea of surgery. Here's how I approach convincing a patient who is hesitant:

Acknowledge their fear: Let them know it's normal to be afraid of surgery. Validate their concerns and listen attentively.

Educate them: In simple terms, explain why surgery is necessary and the potential risks of not having it. Visual aids like diagrams  and videos help

Focus on the benefits: Explain how surgery can improve their quality of life and well-being.

Address specific concerns: Find out what worries them most about surgery (pain, recovery time, etc.) and address those fears directly.

Offer reassurance: Highlight my experience and the success rate of the surgery. Share positive stories of past patients who did well.

Discuss alternatives: Explore if there are any less invasive procedures available, but be clear about the potential drawbacks compared to surgery.

Decision support: Give them time to consider their options. Encourage them to discuss it with loved ones.

Encourage second opinion: If a patient is hesitant always encourage them to get a second opinion from another specialist. If they do go ahead and get it , it validates your decision. Sometimes the confidence and also the trust that they get with this advice itself convinces them for surgery.

 Internet information: Guide patients to the right sources on the internet. That will help them make a decision.

 Economic factors: Help them with insurance or if possible work out a discount if possible if the reason for hesitation is because of financial constraints. In some cases refer them to Government/ Teaching institution where cost can be low if one is willing to wait. 

Some more points

  • Be patient and empathetic.
  • Use clear and concise language.
  • Encourage questions.
  • Maintain a positive and supportive demeanor.
  • Don't take it personal if patient does not agree, however good surgery is for the patient.

If the patient remains hesitant, you may need to respect their decision. However, make sure they understand the potential consequences of refusing surgery.

Dr. Naveen Chowdary Tummala 

SCOT: DR. Naveen's Bone and Joint Clinic, Sholinganallur.

9094567893 . 9094567894

Details & Directions

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Vegans & Vegetarians Building Bones

Building Strong Bones: A Guide for Vegetarians and Vegans Maintaining strong bones is crucial for everyone, but even more so for those following vegetarian or vegan lifestyles. While these diets offer numerous health benefits, some key nutrients vital for bone health might require extra attention. This article equips you with the knowledge and tools to build and maintain robust bones through informed diet, lifestyle practices, and responsible supplementation. Essential Nutrients for Bone Health: Calcium: Responsible for bone structure and density. Vegetarians: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources. Include fortified plant-based milks and tofu. Vegans: Focus on fortified plant-based milks, soy products, leafy greens (collard greens, kale), calcium-set tofu, and seaweeds. Recommended Intake: Adults (19-50 years): 1000mg/day, Adults (over 50): 1200mg/day. Vitamin D: Aids calcium absorption. Both: Sunlight exposure (15-20 minutes m...
Post a Comment
Read more

Growing Short - Yes That Happens ! Age Related Height Loss.

  Understanding Age-Related Height Loss Losing a bit of height as we age is a common concern. Research suggests that most adults lose around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) per decade after age 40. This shrinkage can be attributed to several factors: Spinal Degeneration: The discs between our vertebrae, which act as shock absorbers, naturally dehydrate with age. This loss of fluid leads to disc compression and a shortening of the spine. Studies have shown that this can account for up to 50% of height loss in older adults. Bone Loss: Our bones constantly undergo renewal, but bone formation typically outpaces breakdown until around age 30. After that, bone loss accelerates, especially in women after menopause. This can lead to vertebral fractures, which can cause a more substantial decrease in height. Muscle Mass Decline: Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, impacting posture and contributing to a stooped appearance. This can significantly affect perceived height. Why...
Post a Comment
Read more

Road Rage & RSI: Tips to Save Your Spine & Serenity

Conquering the Commute: Advanced Strategies for Navigating Traffic & Rough Roads Taming the urban jungle while battling bumpy terrain demands more than just steering wheel prowess. It's an exercise in physical and mental agility, requiring a strategic approach that prioritizes both comfort and composure.  Repetitive movements can strain your body, leading to Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). So while driving you could be straining your neck, wrist, ankle and many other joints as well as muscles that slowly and steadily lead to long damage. Not only the bodily strain, bad driving conditions can lead to mental strain too and that is the cause for Road Rage. Here's how to elevate your driving game, transforming those tense commutes into journeys of focused awareness. Physical Finesse: Proper Posture: Imagine a string gently pulling you upwards, aligning your spine and neck in a relaxed yet upright position. Adjust your seat so your lower back finds solace against t...
Post a Comment
Read more