Expert: Paula Damgaard - 10/17/2009

Question
Hello, I need help, my mother fell, had hip surgery had 3 screws inserted into hip, at a time still not known, my mother's screws are not in line so another fracture of this same hip has taken place. So surgeon wants to do more invasive surgery and this time anesthesia is going to be 2 hours. My concern is that she may be able to walk better but the anesthesia may reduce her memory already since she has been diagnosed with dementia, I am not sure what level she is. How can I feel comfortable consenting to another surgery within 3 weeks and right now she is in alot of pain.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Cynthia, you are right it will affect her dementia, but you don't have much choice!   You can't leave her in pain.  Could they give her a spinal rather than general?  They would still have to give her some sedatives but it might not be as bad.  

Speak to the doctor and see if that would work explain your concerns about her cognition.  I hope he will listen.  Good luck, Paula