Your consultation
- Bring your referral letter if you have one, previous reports and scans (discs or links), a list of your medication, your medical aid card and ID.
- You are welcome to bring a family member or friend.
- Write your questions down beforehand.
Scans and tests
Most people need an MRI or CT scan, and some need nerve studies, blood tests or other investigations. If you already have recent scans, please bring them so that tests are not repeated unnecessarily.
Medication
Tell us about all your medication, especially blood thinners (such as warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel or newer anticoagulants), diabetes medication and anti-inflammatories. Do not stop any medication unless you are advised to.
Deciding about surgery
If surgery is advised, the expected benefits, the risks and the alternatives are explained, so that you can give informed consent. You are welcome to take time to decide, and to seek a second opinion.
The day of surgery
You will be told when to arrive and when to stop eating and drinking. The anaesthetist will see you before the operation. Please arrange for someone to take you home when you are discharged.