Ask:
urgent neurosurgery
My doctor has told me that I must have neurosurgery due to scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, stenosis, neuroforaminal encroachment, anterior cord flattening and bilateral spurring. I have weakness on both sides of my body in my hands, arms and legs. I have hyperreflexia, loss of balance, impaired coordination, debilitating headaches and some loss of bladder control. My pain is being controlled with methadone.
I have been referred to a neurosurgical group. How can I find information on my condition and the neurosurgery group. What questions should I be asking. What are my options. I am a vet going through the VA hospital system and am finding it very difficult to get information. Any recommendations are appreciated.
Answer:
urgent neurosurgery
:)Welcome Stevee
I read your post and wanted to let you know you can research your doctors on Dr. Joshua's main page . You will see the google search to search the web or many post and answers to topics in the dr's forum search. It would be important to know if your doctor is a board certified physician. These physicians have 4 years of medical school and another 3yrs. of supervised training in their speciality. To be certified and recognized by The American Medical Assoc., they have to meet certain standards and examinations.
Also you state and county medical society can give you information about doctors in your area. Search the facility your doctor is affiliated with.
I find it helpful to write my questions down before the visit, the name of the operation, what is my prognosis, risks etc. If I don't understand I ask for him to explain in plain English, after all its your body. I certainly wish you the best and hope the search tool helps.
Purple98Lady