When people visit Dr. Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, for a surgical oncology consultation, they often have questions about their cancer and the procedure – but it’s easy to forget what to ask in the moment.
At her Laguna Hills, California, practice, Dr. Klause makes patients feel comfortable and confident about their procedure. It all starts with that first visit. Read on to learn four important questions to ask us at your first visit.
Surgical oncologists like Dr. Klause play a central role in diagnosing and treating many cancers. Depending on your unique situation, you may already have a diagnosis or your diagnosis may still be evolving.
Asking this question gives you the chance to clarify the exact type of cancer that is confirmed or suspected. This question also covers whether you need additional testing and what your results may mean for treatment.
Dr. Klause expertly evaluates the full picture, including testing, specific tumor characteristics, and whole-body health, to create a plan that matches your needs. A clear understanding of all of these things can help you make informed choices.
Surgery may play a diagnostic or treatment role within a cancer management plan. In many cases, you may need separate diagnostic and treatment procedures.
For example, Dr. Klause may perform a biopsy or another minimally invasive procedure to confirm a diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer. This information can then help guide the next steps in treatment.
In the next procedure, Dr. Klause may remove a tumor. Or, if that’s not possible, she may operate on surrounding tissues or organs to help ease symptoms.
Dr. Klause explains whether surgery is recommended for your condition, what the goal of the procedure is, and which specific procedures could be a good fit for you.
Knowing what to expect from your procedure can ease stress and make your recovery more manageable. Ask Dr. Klause what preparations are required, such as:
Dr. Klause also provides specific instructions for each oncology procedure. For example, after a mastectomy, you’ll likely have a drain to remove excess liquid from the surgery site.
You’ll get specific instructions for drain emptying, exercise, pain management, returning to driving, and more. Your consultation is a great time to start gathering this info.
Minimally invasive approaches, such as robotic surgery, can offer important benefits to people with cancer. Because these advanced approaches have very small incisions and highly precise techniques, they can lead to shorter recoveries.
But not everyone is the right candidate for robotic surgery. Your first visit is the ideal time to explore whether it’s right for you and how this approach could fit into your overall cancer management plan.
Your surgical oncology consultation is about gathering information and developing a relationship with our team.
Dr. Klause dedicates time and attention to each patient to build trust, provide crucial knowledge, and foster confidence during this challenging period.
Phone the office at 949-245-6910 to schedule an oncology surgery consultation with Orange County’s leading expert.
