health&healing

current issue

Surgery: Advances, Alternatives, Before, After

Volume 25, No. 4 – April 2023

taking charge of surgery

Whether major or minor, emergency or elective, surgery is a profound, even traumatic physical experience. It is often also a difficult emotional experience, made all the more distressing by the loss of control we feel as we turn everything over to the surgeon.

But as the contributors to this issue reveal, there is much each of us can do to “take charge” of this healing process. There is much comfort—and benefit—from simply understanding the surgical procedures, and the many advances that reduce risk and enhance recovery. Even more important, we are reminded of the critical role each of us can play in shaping the outcome of a surgical procedure by the choices we make before and after surgery. In fact, it can be argued that the best surgical outcomes are the result of a team effort—a team that includes the patient. “Taking charge” of one’s surgery means working closely with your doctor to explore options and alternatives as well as managing the dietary and lifestyle choices that support healing. Enjoy!