Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
| By James F.X. Kenealy, M.D. The recent death of a Framingham woman after liposuction by an unlicensed practitioner is a grim reminder of the dangers that exist for the uninformed patient. As the legal aspects of the case unfold, there is an important lesson to be learned from this tragic event for anyone contemplating surgery: Patients must educate themselves about their condition, plan and prepare for their procedure, ask questions and check credentials. Patients are an integral part of their health care team as important as doctors and nurses. Research has shown that educated and engaged patients have better outcomes. The thought of surgery can be unnerving, even frightening. Yet sometimes surgery can affect a cure or improve function when conservative measures fail. It may be impossible to prepare for surgical emergencies a burst appendix or trauma. But most surgical procedures are elective planned and scheduled in advance. All surgery should be taken seriously; even seemingly "minor" procedures carry risks. No surgical procedure is free of possible complications. Keep this in mind as the demand for cosmetic procedures soars, and more providers and facilities respond to this demand. Primary care physicians can often be a great asset. They will help you choose the right treatment, surgical or non-surgical, for you. Not every patient is a good candidate for every procedure. Most primary care doctors have established relationships with qualified and experienced surgeons. They can refer you to a reputable surgeon and guide you through the process. And your personal physician often plays an important role during your recuperation. Preparation for surgery should begin as soon as your doctor recommends surgery or you decide to undergo a cosmetic procedure. Consider these important questions: Why do I need this surgery? Are any non-surgical treatments available? What risks or complications may arise during or after surgery? What are the risks or consequences of not having surgery? Should I get a second opinion? What kind of anesthesia will be used? How long can I expect to have pain and how will it be managed? What kind of recovery period or rehabilitation is involved? When, if ever, can I expect to resume my normal lifestyle or return to work? Where will the surgery be done: hospital, ambulatory surgery center, office, or other location? Is the facility accredited and by what organization? How much does it cost and will my insurance cover it? What deductibles and copays will I be responsible for? What kind of education, training, board certification, and experience does my surgeon have? Don't be afraid to ask these or other questions. Put them in writing so you'll remember them (and don't forget to write down the answers). Consider bringing along a family member or trusted friend two sets of ears are better than one. This can help avoid miscommunication and misunderstanding, especially if language, culture or communication barriers exist. Talk to friends and family members who have had similar surgery. If possible, meet with the anesthesiologist beforehand to discuss your anesthesia. Be well-prepared for your visit with your surgeon. Bring along all pertinent medical records, test results and X-rays so that your surgeon can thoroughly evaluate your condition and you both can develop a treatment plan. Don't assume that because you have been referred to a surgeon your records have been forwarded. The more you bring to your consultation, the more you will get from it. Make your surgeon aware of any allergies, medications or other health problems that you have, whether or not you think they might affect your surgery. There are a number of good resources to help patients plan for surgery. Here are four respected organizations that offer free information: American College of Surgeons, www.facs.org, has patient education resources, including informed consent, checking on board certification of physicians, and accreditation of hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, www.ahrq.gov, offers brochures such as "Having Surgery? What you need to know" and "Quick Tips When Planning for Surgery." American Society of Plastic Surgeons, www.plasticsurgery.org, has information about plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Partnership for Healthcare Excellence is a coalition of Massachusetts health organizations helping patients play a bigger role in their health care: www.partnershipforhealthcare.org Finally, here's one site that's indispensable: the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, at www.massmedboard.org, where you can check the education, training, credentials, and malpractice history of all physicians licensed in Massachusetts. |