S

surgery benefit and risk assessment Objective
evaluation of the reasons and expectations for a
surgical OPERATION. Surgery is a common therapeu-
tic approach today, with surgeons in the United
States performing more than 25 million opera-
tions a year. Risks and complications related to
surgery and ANESTHESIAhave declined dramatically
over the past three decades, making surgery one
of the safest and most effective treatments for
many health conditions. However, surgery is often
not the only therapeutic option for a particular
condition or health circumstance. It is important
to fully understand

• the specific operation the surgeon recommends
  and why


• the expected benefits of the operation


• other surgical operations that might also treat
  the problem


• the possible nonsurgical treatments for the con-
  dition


• the potential risks of the operation itself


• how the operation’s risks compare to the risks
  of other treatment options (including nontreat-
  ment) for the condition

Some people need time to think through their
options, the reasons the surgeon recommends the
operation, and the possible complications of the
operation. There is usually no hurry to schedule
an elective operation, though symptoms such as
PAINmay make the scheduling timely. It is often
helpful to write down questions and concerns,
then schedule an appointment with the surgeon
to discuss them before making the decision to pro-
ceed with surgery.

The surgeon who will perform the operation

should be qualified and experienced. Many hospi-

tals are teaching centers where surgical residents

(trained physicians who are learning advanced

skills in surgery) participate in operations. They do

so under the direction and close supervision of the

primary surgeon. Teaching hospitals are required

to obtain signed permission for staff who are in

training (physicians, nurses, and ancillary staff) to

participate in care delivery, including surgery. As

well, for most operations the surgeon has at least

one other surgeon assisting him or her. A person

should know who will actually be performing the

operation and the other doctors who will be assist-

ing because these are factors that may influence

the outcome of the surgery.

Surgery Benefits

The benefits of surgery are numerous and mostly

specific to the planned operation. In general, sur-

gery corrects or repairs defects, injuries, functions,

or appearance. Surgery may be lifesaving, as in

major trauma or CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT

(CABG), and is the first line of treatment for many

forms of cancer. Surgery may also be palliative,

such as to reduce pain, pressure, or other discom-

forts that may occur in chronic health conditions

such as NEUROPATHYor terminal cancer. It is impor-

tant to discuss with the surgeon the anticipated or

hoped for benefits of the recommended operation.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF SURGERY

correct congenital improved appearance

defects improved function

relieve intractable PAIN removal of tumors

treat injuries or

conditions

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