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illofigas illofigas
wrote...
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12 years ago
I was scheduled for achilles tendon surgery this Friday with a specialist that I am currently seeing.  Out of the blue, he recommends that I go to this other guy for the surgery as he has more experience.  OK, fine.  However, when I call the new surgeon, his people schedule the surgery without even asking me what my problem is, previous medical treatment, etc.  I asked if they needed to see me before the surgery to talk things over and they said no.  Is this normal!?
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wrote...
12 years ago
in bigger cities and hospitals, this is the can be normal.  is it normal for a patient to consent to this??  that's your choice.  i would never have any surgery that wasn't emergency done if i didn't meet the surgeon first and have a period of time to digest all info and seek the guidance of a 2nd opinion, if needed.
wrote...
12 years ago
If your specialist sent all your medical files to the specialist that is going to operate, then this is normal.
wrote...
Valued Member
12 years ago
I wouldn't be too worried as long as you did YOUR research on the surgeon.  If this is something he specializes in and he has seen the x-rays then he knows what he needs to do.  It all depends on how much schooling he has and how long has he been practicing.  If it is something he does daily then he probably looks at it as "I do this all the time, just have him come in on the day of surgery because I've seen the x-rays."  Does that make sense?  Good luck!
wrote...
12 years ago
let me tell you its best you meet this doctor so you can ask questions .you should feel comfortable with who is working on you
wrote...
12 years ago
It might very well be completely normal if your normal doctor has sent him over your file along with the x-rays he has taken. The one thing that would set your mind at ease is in checking out his qualifications beforehand and briefly talking with him prior to the procedure. If you still feel uneasy......let them know that you would like to reschedule and get a consult from this doctor BEFORE anything is done. Good luck to you!
wrote...
12 years ago
Yes, it's normal. The surgeon will have handed over all your notes and your case history to the new surgeon.
I can understand why you feel uncomfortable with this and I would recommend that you contact the consultant's secretary and ask if you can speak to him about it.
However, if I'm honest it really wouldn't concern me. I'd just be glad I was getting the help I needed. What would happen if your surgeon became ill on the day of your operation? Another surgeon would more than likely perform the procedure. One Achilles' tendon is the same as another. If this guy is as good as the other surgeon says he is then you don't have anything to worry about.
But as I say, I can understand your concerns.
wrote...
12 years ago
I have had numerous major surgeries. 2 total hip replacements, 3 right hip revisions, spinal lamenotomy, multilevel spinal fusion with hardware times 2, carpal tunnel release bi-lat, right index knuckle removal, left middle finger knuckle fusion and well, the point is I would not have surgery without meeting the surgeon. I don't care about his recommendations, qualifications or if he has been sent my complete medical file! You have a right to meet the person who will be cutting into you! A great deal can be told by seeing this person. I don't believe people should be treated like numbers or "the Achilles tendon in room 10"! Some surgeons have the bedside manner of a toad! Prior to any of my operations, I have looked those doctors in the eye. I have asked questions. I have simply chatted with them to find out "who" they are. I tend to not trust doctors who seem to be either arrogant or bored with what they do...one extreme or the other! I am more apt to trust down to earth, bottom line honest surgeons that also have not forgotten how to laugh!!! I would insist on seeing this surgeon or find a different one. This is your right!! You are hiring him, after all!! I wish you well with your surgery. May God Bless and keep you.
wrote...
12 years ago
Firstly the doctor may have sent over your notes which is fine and if you have had all the procedure explained then fine. The thing is you definately need a pre-op examination. I would query this!
wrote...
12 years ago
I'd be very concerned.

It's not unusual for partners to take care of each others' patients, especially in emergencies, but to be sent to a new practice and not even meet your surgeon ahead of time is just bad form.

I wouldn't let a stranger operate on me.  What you do is your business, of course, but it's your body, and if you want to meet your surgeon ahead of time, you have the right to do so.
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