Have you reviewed my medical records? (never assume they have)
Do you agree with the diagnosis?
What is your diagnosis?
How would you treat me?
What is your surgical specialty?
What type of surgical technique do you use?
Please describe this technique in detail.
Why do you utilize this technique?
What other techniques can be used to remove my tumor?
Do you recommend them? Why, or why not?
Do you recommend radiation?
How many procedures have you done?
What are the possible complications?
What do you use to control CSF leaks?
What are your most frequent complications?
What is your success rate?
What do you consider a successful procedure?
What is the chance of mortality?
What is the chance of loss of pit function, either partial, or complete?
If you had this type of tumor, who would you have resect it?
Do you use a team of doctors to perform the procedure?
If so, what type of doctors do you employ?
Who do you refer your patients to for post-op care?
What is your plan for follow up?
May I have a copy of the consent form?
If I do indeed have Cushings Syndrome (or any other secondary disease), how will that change my surgical treatment?
How would you handle a CSF leak that will not seal with a lumbar drain? (per Minnie)
Also ask many questions pertaining to your specific case. I have a typed five page list of questions for each Neuro. If you are considering surgery with a specific doctor, ask him if you can talk to one of his former patients, and also speak with the nurses and the doctors' colleagues. Be sure to check each Neuro out with his State Medical Board and make sure he has not been disciplined in the past. You can find malpractice info at the local county clerk's office (civil court) in the city the Neuro is located.
Good luck finding a Neurosurgeon that is best for your specific case. My advice is to get many second opinions, this is brain surgery, after all. You're all in my prayers. Take care.
Meri
