Questions to ask about reconstruction
The following are questions that you can ask the healthcare team about reconstructive surgery. Choose the questions that fit your, or your child’s, situation and add questions of your own. You may find it helpful to take the list to the next appointment and to write down the answers.
- What is reconstruction?
- Will I need reconstruction?
- What types of reconstruction are available?
- What type of reconstruction is recommended for me? What is the name of the surgery?
- Can reconstruction be done at the same time as treatment? Does reconstruction have to be done at the same time as treatment (to help preserve function)?
- Can reconstruction be done after treatment for my cancer is finished?
- How is reconstruction done?
- What are the benefits and risks of reconstruction?
- Where can I meet others who have had the same reconstruction?
- Does reconstruction require a hospital stay? If so, for how long?
- Who do you recommend to do the reconstruction?
- Does reconstruction restore normal function?
- Will the reconstructive surgery be covered by health insurance? If not, how much will it cost?
- Are any special device(s) or medical supplies needed because of reconstruction? If so, what are they?
- Will the cost of the device(s) or supplies be covered by health insurance? If not, what is the cost?
- Is financial assistance available if I need it?