Is Elective Surgery on the Cards Again?

Normal life has certainly been turned upside down in recent months. Many people who were due to get surgery have been forced to postpone due to government restrictions and hospital rules. Yet as things start to slowly get better, you may be able to reschedule your surgery and get it done with. What types of procedures are more likely to get the go-ahead, and what should you know about the process in this new day and age?

Prioritisation

When it comes to elective surgery, it is likely that facilities will prioritise people based on their current conditions. If your situation is such that you can take care of it during day surgery, without the need to stay overnight, then you may get priority. The surgeon will also take into account your general state of health and your age.

If you are deemed to be at an elevated risk from the adverse effects of COVID-19, then you may need to have a more detailed conversation with the facility. In the unfortunate event of an outbreak in a particular town or city, hospitals contained within that area may be further restricted.

Getting the Go-Ahead

Some types of procedures are likely to be reintroduced first, and these will typically be the more commonplace or less complex. For example, the cataract surgery backlog could be first in line, and if you need to have new dentures, then you may be given the green light.

It is likely that hip and knee replacement surgeries can now go ahead, and an explorative procedure such as a colonoscopy or endoscopy will be cleared.

Surgery Types

Generally speaking, there are different categories of surgery. Those considered nonurgent are in the third category, such as most cataract procedures. Semi-urgent procedures are typically admitted within 90 days, as while they are likely to cause some discomfort, they are not likely to develop into an emergency. Cancer and heart conditions may be classified as emergencies, and they will be prioritised above all others.

Assessing Your Situation

Obviously, the situation is still fluid and is likely to be this way for some time. You should keep in close contact with your primary care provider as well as your surgeon. If you have any questions, make sure that you ask them, and if you do have any change in your condition, then get in touch right away for further advice.

To learn more about surgery, contact a doctor.

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