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Your Surgeon

 


Choosing A Surgeon

What should I look for when choosing a surgeon?  It seems that usually, in the case of a cholesteatoma, the surgery needs to be done as soon as possible.  But, you want to be sure that the surgeon you choose is experienced and that you feel comfortable with him or her.  If you have enough time, below are some tips for choosing a surgeon in general.

 Gather a list of names from people you trust

bulletFriends and family
bulletSupport Group
bulletDoctor - primary care physician
bulletNurses
bulletHospitals

Check the credentials of those on your list

bulletTraining
bulletHospital privileges
bulletExperience / Qualifications

Interview Surgeons

Narrow down your list based on what you found out.  Make appointments for consultations with the surgeons remaining on your list. 

bulletBe sure to bring a list of questions to ask the surgeon with you so you don't forget anything while you're there.
bulletBe sure that they explain everything in a way that you understand
bulletSample Questions:
bulletHow many of these surgeries have you performed?
bulletHow often do you perform this procedure?
bulletWhat is your success rate with this surgical procedure?
bulletAre there any other surgeons in the area or surrounding areas with more experience?
bulletWhat is the usual recovery?
bulletWhat's the worst complication you've ever seen?
bulletAre you available after hours if needed?
bulletMay I have a list of patients who have had the operation?

Cholesteatoma Specific

bulletJoin the Cholesteatoma Yahoo!Group and post a message asking if there is anyone in the group that lives in your area - if so, do they have a doctor they would recommend?
bulletFind out if there are any Otologists / Neurotologists in your area - they have had additional training that Otolaryngologists have not to specialize in the ears.
bulletAsk the surgeon about the differences between the canal wall down and canal wall up procedures.

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Send mail to Lisa with questions or comments about this web site. Last modified: 03/20/04
The Cholesteatoma Resources web site offers and provides information of a general nature about cholesteatoma. The information provided is not intended to replace surgical or medical advice or recommendations. Any information in the messages, postings or articles on the web site should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a medical professional to address individual medical needs. Individuals' particular facts and circumstances will determine the treatment which is most appropriate.

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