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

Comments

Falls Prevention in Toilets and Bathrooms: Essential Strategies for Safety

Falls are a significant concern in bathrooms and toilets, especially for older adults and individuals with mobility issues. The combination of slippery surfaces, confined spaces, and the need for physical maneuvering makes these areas particularly hazardous. However, with thoughtful planning and the implementation of various safety measures, the risk of falls can be greatly reduced. This article outlines key strategies and interventions to promote safety in toilets and bathrooms. 1. Install Grab Bars Grab bars provide essential support and stability in bathrooms. They should be strategically placed near the toilet, shower, and bathtub. These bars help individuals maintain balance while transitioning from sitting to standing or stepping in and out of the shower. When installing grab bars, ensure they are securely anchored to the wall and can support a person's weight. 2. Use Non-Slip Mats and Strips Wet floors are a common cause of falls. Non-slip mats should be placed inside and ...

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...

FIRST DO NO HARM - ORTHOPAEDICS

Primum Non Nocere: The Guiding Principle in Orthopaedic Care "Primum non nocere," a Latin phrase translating to "First, do no harm," is a cornerstone principle in medicine. In the field of orthopaedics, which deals with the musculoskeletal system, this principle takes on a particular significance. Here's how "primum non nocere" shapes the practice of orthopaedic care: Balancing Intervention with Minimal Disruption: Orthopaedic surgeons treat a wide range of conditions, from bone fractures and joint pain to sports injuries and congenital disorders. While surgery can be a powerful tool for correcting these issues, it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. "Primum non nocere" emphasizes exploring conservative treatment options like physical therapy, medication, or bracing first. Surgery is considered only when the potential for improvement outweighs the risks of infection, pain, and complications associated with the ...

Orthopaedics For All

Search This Blog