Colorectal surgeons handle a range of conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus. You may want to see an experienced colorectal surgeon in Singapore like Dr. Aaron Poh for common issues like hemorrhoids and fissures and even more complex problems like colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.
Read Dr. Aaron Poh’s profile on this page: https://alpinesurgical.sg/dr-aaron-poh/. You might also need to see a colorectal surgeon if you have symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or if you need screening for colorectal cancer.
They can also help with conditions like diverticulitis, polyps, and fistulas. Referral to a colorectal surgeon often happens when your primary care physician or gastroenterologist suspects a more serious issue that requires specialized care or surgery.
And, that’s exactly why we created this guide. Read it to the end for inspiration on the right questions to ask your colorectal surgeon in Singapore.
What Should I Ask My Colorectal Surgeon?
Depending on your specific need for surgery, a colorectal procedure can be complicated. So, before the surgery, you will want to ask your colorectal surgeon questions for clarity on the procedure. It will also be helpful for you to understand the risks and post-operative care.
A key question to ask your colorectal surgeon is; ‘please, describe the surgery I will have?’ Asking this question will help you understand the procedure’s specifics, including its purpose, steps, and potential outcomes. You will need this information to better prepare mentally and physically for the surgery.
But, that isn’t the only question for your colorectal surgeon in Singapore. Below are seven more questions you may want to ask as well;
I. Are there any other treatments I will need either before or after surgery?
There are several different types of colon cancer surgery. And, depending on the specific colorectal surgery you need and the reason for the procedure, you may need additional treatments. For example, you may need chemotherapy or radiation therapy to manage your condition effectively.
Also, additional treatments may be necessary to prevent its recurrence. Knowing about these treatments ensures that you’re best placed to prepare mentally and emotionally for the challenges that may come with the procedure. What’s more, it also gives you a clearer picture of the overall treatment plan and what to expect during your recovery.
II. Are there any other tests I will need before my surgery?
Before surgery, your colorectal surgeon in Singapore may order various tests to assess your overall health and the extent of your condition. These tests may include blood tests, imaging scans (like CT scans or MRIs), or colonoscopies.
You will want to know about what potential tests to expect to prepare you for the procedure. It also allows you to ask any questions you may have about the tests and their purpose.
III. What is the potential duration of my hospital stay?
Depending on the colorectal surgery you’re having you may be able to go home on the same day of your surgery without a need for an overnight stay. Also, depending on the recommended surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days as you recover under the watch of your colorectal surgeon in Singapore and other specialists.
Understanding the expected length of your hospital will help you plan your recovery. Importantly, it will also allow you to make arrangements for any necessary support, such as caregiving or time off work. Knowing what to expect can also help reduce stress during your hospital stay, as you’ll have a clearer timeline for when you can expect to return home.
IV. What will be removed during surgery?
You will also want to know what will be removed during surgery to better understand the potential impact on your body. For example, if part of your colon or rectum is removed, it can affect your bowel function.
Knowing the extent of the surgery does not only help you prepare for the potential changes in your body post-surgery. It also allows you to ask more specific questions about the procedure and its potential outcomes.
V. What are the risks and side effects of the procedure?
As you probably, already understand, every surgery carries risks. And, it’s important that you fully understand and acknowledge the risks before undergoing the procedure.
A good colorectal surgeon in Singapore will discuss potential complications and side effects with you, as well as any steps you can take to minimize these risks. You should know about the potential risks to best prepare for any challenges that may come up during your recovery.
VI. How soon after my colorectal surgery will I have all test results and a firm diagnosis?
Knowing when you’ll receive your test results can provide peace of mind. It can also help you plan for the next steps in your treatment.
What’s more, it also allows you to ask follow-up questions and seek additional information if needed. If you feel a little nervous about the procedure, ask about the timeline for receiving your results. This can help to at least reduce anxiety and uncertainty during your recovery period, as you’ll have a clearer idea of what to expect in terms of your diagnosis and treatment plan.
VII. Will I be able to go back to normal activities?
To be able to effectively plan your post-operative life, you will also want to understand the expected recovery timeline plus any limitations on activities that may come with it. With this information, it will be easier to set realistic expectations for your recovery.
Most importantly, it will also ensure that you can take the necessary steps to heal properly. Knowing when you can return to work, exercise, and other daily activities also allows you to plan and make the necessary arrangements for your recovery period.
Wrapping Up
A good colorectal surgeon in Singapore will be open to answering any questions or concerns you may have with your colorectal surgery in Singapore. So, feel free to ask any question be it about the surgery itself, preparation, or post-operative care.
We offer colorectal surgery in Singapore and surely understand what it demands and the commitment it demands from the patient, depending on the specific procedure you’re having. That’s why, we also offer intensive patient education and are always open to any questions you may have about the procedure and everything else. To learn more about the procedure, and our approach or schedule an appointment, call or visit us at;
Alpine Surgical Practice – Colorectal Screening | Colonoscopy | Piles & Haemorrhoids Surgery | Gallstones Removal
MOUNT ELIZABETH (ORCHARD)
3 Mount Elizabeth #14-06
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
+65 6322 7323
+65 8875 0080
+65 6602 8086
PARKWAY EAST
319 Joo Chiat Place #04-07
Singapore 427989
+65 6589 8160
+65 8875 2149
+65 6871 8870
