If your doctor has recommended you undergo surgery for your pituitary gland tumor, it is important that you find a surgeon you are comfortable entrusting with your health. This process can seem overwhelming at first, so the following is some helpful guidance to assist you as you begin to look for the right person to perform your pituitary gland tumor surgery.
Keep in mind, as you are looking for a surgeon, visiting an office for a consult is not a commitment to have your procedure done there. You should not feel pressured to be treated by a doctor you don’t feel comfortable with just because he or she was the first on your list. Continue your search until you find a surgeon you are okay entrusting with your health.
Places to Search for a Surgeon
One of the toughest parts of finding a surgeon is knowing where to start. A great place to begin is by asking for referrals from family and friends. While they may not have direct experience with pituitary gland surgery, they may know someone who has and can tell you about his or her experience. You can also check with your physician if there is an experienced surgeon he or she can refer you to in the area.
If you cannot find anyone within your direct network of friends, family and coworkers, expand your search to the internet to see what people have to say about surgeons in the New Jersey area. There are many popular online review sites that allow you to read about other people’s experiences, both positive and negative. You may also wish to check out patient success stories that are often shared on a surgeon’s website, which can also help give you an idea about the doctor’s experience.
Qualifications the Surgeon Should Possess
One of the most important qualifications you should look for in a surgeon is specialization in pituitary gland tumor surgery. These tumors exhibit a high degree of variability and are located in a delicate area of the body. You will want a surgeon with the knowledge and experience in managing pituitary gland tumors.
Additionally, it can be helpful to make a list of qualities you would like your surgeon to possess before beginning your search. This way, you can keep an eye open for keywords as you read online reviews, helping you narrow your search down to a surgeon who is a good fit for you. Some potential qualities include:
- Experience
- Compassion
- Confidence
- Understanding
- Empathy
Procedure Options Available
The treatment you receive will depend on the characteristics of your pituitary gland tumor and personal health history. As you evaluate potential surgeons, it is useful to make sure he or she performs the specific treatment your doctor has recommended. Potential treatment options include the following:
- Medication – sometimes the preferred option is to manage the symptoms resulting from your tumor, such as too much of a certain hormone, using medications.
- Traditional Surgery – surgical removal of your tumor, often accessing the site through your nose.
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery – a focused beam of radiation is delivered directly to your tumor, shrinking it while sparing much of the healthy surrounding tissue.
Questions One Should Ask
Once you find a surgeon you are interested in meeting, arrange for a consultation appointment and get a firsthand feel for the practice and doctor. It can be helpful to prepare some questions beforehand. The following are some suggestions, but be sure to add anything you are curious or have concerns about. Potential questions include:
- What is your recommendation for the preferred treatment option in my individual case?
- What kind of experience do you have with pituitary gland tumor surgery?
- What are the risks of the procedure?
Do not be shy about asking the surgeon these or other questions. Remember, it is your health and you will be the person undergoing pituitary gland tumor surgery. Take your time to find the right surgeon for you and your personal needs, and you will find the entire treatment process to be less stressful.
Finding the Right Surgeon for You
During your treatment, it’s important that you can focus on yourself and the healing process, rather than stressing needlessly that your health is in the hands of anyone who is anything less than an expert. Though it may take a little extra effort on your part, taking the time now to find a surgeon experienced in pituitary gland tumor surgery who you feel comfortable with will pay off in the long run.
Remember, look to people you know and trust for referrals. This can include friends, family, coworkers or your physician. Should those leads not pan out, read reviews online to find someone with experience and who embodies the qualities you are looking for in your surgeon. Finally, when it comes time to meet the doctor, don’t hesitate to ask questions and determine if he or she is a good fit for you.
Your health is a very personal thing and you want to be sure you are entrusting it to someone who treats you as an individual and who can deliver top-quality care. Being proactive and taking the time to find a great pituitary gland tumor surgeon in New Jersey will help you to feel more confident.