Does this mean i'm having surgery soon?

Posted , 4 users are following.

Hi guys, 

I had my ultrasound scan on the sunday just gone and they told me i have a 3cm gallstone and its inflamed. They said i will need my gallbladder out.

Now, i've just had a letter through the post for an appointment at the General and Colorectal Surgery. Is this sort of like a pre-op consultation/discussusion of near surgery or will it just be like an informal chat about options or something else? (i havent a clue!)

It going so quick im very surprised! Any info will be really appreciated!

Thank you xx

 

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Posted

    Im in the US, but the way it worked for me is that my GI suggested I have it out and they referred me to a surgeon. My first appointment (and honestly only appointment before surgery) with the surgeon was just him going over my paper work, donig a little exam and agreeing with the GI's diagnosis. No going over the procedure, just explaining the risks and potential complications. No signing paperwork at that time. After talking to him, I scheduled a tentative surgery date with a secretary. They then get everything approved by insurance and set a hard date, and called me back with the surgery date and the pre-op date. Less than a week later, I was doing pre-op where they take all your vitals and get all of your information (drugs you're on, allergies, etc.) and explain the surgery to you. Three days later I was having surgery.

    Again - this was in the US so things went fast and don't necessarily happen the same in the UK. I've heard of people getting a surgery date MONTHS out and having it be pushed over and over again. I think if you have good/private insurance it's much easier/faster.

    I would think that this appointment you're scheduled for is more of an informal chat about options, and if he strongly believes you need surgery you might tentatively schedule a date at the appointment.

  • Posted

    i was the same as you. I had the same appointment very soon after the ultra sound. That was to see the consultant to discuss the operation. Well that was 7 months ago and i have the operation tomorrow. 3 December. You may not to have to wait that long but i think it will be an informal chat to explain all about it and if you have any questions. Hope you get on ok. Jill

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