Surgery
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Some of our patients will inevitably require surgery to treat their symptoms, to investigate whether or not they have a condition, or to remove an abnormality. We understand that the prospect of surgery can be daunting, and endeavour to help our patients navigate the process leading up to surgery.
Dr Aubrey has undergone extensive surgical training, and is experienced in minor and major procedures. Some of our practice’s patients will need to have a short surgery under general anaesthetic. An example of this might be a wire loop excision to treat cervix abnormalities, or a hysteroscopy to check the lining of the womb. However, other patients will need a larger procedure, such as a laparoscopy (`keyhole’ operation) to treat endometriosis or to remove an enlarged ovarian cyst. Some might even require a hysterectomy. Depending on patient factors and the reason for the surgery, some procedures may be performed using a vaginal approach, via keyhole surgery, or by making a longer cut on the abdomen. If you’ve never had surgery before, the prospect of any of these can be daunting. Here’s a short rundown of what to expect.
Planning surgery
When you see Dr Aubrey, she will advise whether or not she recommends surgery to treat your condition. She will provide a description of the proposed surgery, and will inform you of any relevant risks and potential alternative options. Your doctor will not book your surgery unless she is satisfied that you understand the procedure you are having, and why it has been proposed. Once you do consent, Dr Aubrey will book the procedure for an agreed date, and the practice will provide you with informed financial consent. This includes an estimate of the overall cost of surgery, including any `out of pocket’ costs. Our fees are based on the Australian Medical Association’s Fee Schedule. You will also be advised of the time from which you will need to fast on the day of surgery and what time to present to hospital. In most cases you will need to have a blood test a day or two prior to surgery.
On the day of surgery
You may be excited or frightened to find the day of surgery has arrived. It is completely normal to feel this way, but it’s important to remember that you have a team of professionals looking after you. Remember to stick to your fasting instructions. You may find that after checking in for your procedure, there is a long wait until you go into the operating theatre itself. This can be frustrating, but often reflects a longer than expected prior surgery, or an interruption due to an emergency. Hospital staff will often keep you updated if the delay will be significant. When you arrive at the operating theatre, your anaesthetic team will check you over, place an IV drip, and provide friendly reassurance and support before you come into the operating theatre. You will usually see Dr Aubrey at this stage too, in time for any last-minute questions or queries.
After surgery
Dr Aubrey will likely visit you in the recovery area, in the post-surgical unit or in the ward. Once you are awake and alert, she will usually try to see you for a brief discussion about how the operation has gone, and whether or not you are fit for discharge on the same day. Often there will be biopsy or pathology results to wait on after the surgery, and Dr Aubrey will have booked you for a follow-up visit to check your progress post-surgery and to discuss these results. Most people go home feeling generally well, after having mobilised and had something to eat. If necessary, you will be provided with a plan for post-operative pain management, which might include a script for pain relief if needed.
You will only go home once you are well enough, but if you feel very unwell in the hours or days after the procedure, you can call the practice on 4721 3344, see your GP, or attend an emergency department if the issue is urgent. Our practice is always keen to hear from you if you are concerned about your post-operative health, and will usually fit you in for urgent review if this is needed.
The experience of planning and undergoing surgery can often be overwhelming, but we are pleased to help you navigate this process in any way we can.