Consent

Making an Informed Decision About Your Surgery

Consent is an essential part of any surgical process, and one I take seriously well beyond simply signing a form. Genuine informed consent means you understand your diagnosis, the treatment options available to you, and the expected benefits and risks of surgery, so that any decision to proceed is genuinely yours.

What Informed Consent Involves

Before any operation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your diagnosis, the recommended procedure, and reasonable alternatives - including the option of no treatment. This includes an honest discussion of the expected benefits of surgery, the specific risks relevant to your procedure and individual circumstances, and what recovery is likely to involve.

Your Right to Ask Questions

No question is too small when it comes to your own health. You are encouraged to ask about anything that is unclear, request more information about risks or alternatives, or take time to consider your options before committing to a date for surgery.

What Consent Covers

• Your Specific Diagnosis: A clear explanation of what has been found on examination and imaging, and how this relates to your symptoms.

• The Recommended Procedure: What the operation involves, and why it is being recommended in your particular case.

• Reasonable Alternatives: Other treatment options, including non-surgical approaches, and why a particular course has been recommended for you.

• Risks and Complications: The general risks of surgery and anaesthesia, along with risks specific to your procedure and any individual factors that may increase your risk.

• Expected Recovery: A realistic outline of the recovery process, including likely timeframes and any activity restrictions.

Important Considerations

• Consent is an Ongoing Conversation: You can ask questions and seek clarification at any point before your surgery, not only at the initial consultation.

• You Can Change Your Mind: You are entitled to decline or postpone surgery at any stage prior to the operation.

• Written Consent is a Formal Step: Written consent is obtained closer to your surgery date, once you have had the opportunity to consider all the information provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I formally sign my consent form?

This is usually completed on the day of admission, or occasionally at a pre-operative visit, once you have had the opportunity to ask any final questions.

Can I request a second opinion?

Yes, you are always entitled to seek a second opinion, and this will be fully supported and facilitated if you wish to do so.

What if I have more questions after my consultation?

You are welcome to get in touch with any further questions at any point before your surgery date.

Dr Farrier's Note

"I believe patients make the best decisions when they feel genuinely informed, not simply told what to do. Take the time you need to ask questions and feel confident in your decision - that's what real consent means."