According to a study by USA Today, and an article by Peter Eisler, up to 20% (one in five) surgeries in some specialties are unnecessary. Most notably cardiac procedures (stents, angioplasties, pacemaker implantation) and spine surgeries.
When you factor in the complication rates of these procedures, the bottom line is this: GET A SECOND OPINION. I’ve always said that asking a surgeon if you need an operation is like asking a car salesman whether you need a new car.
The USA Today article quoted many prominent medical studies backing up these claims. Now, these statistics don’t necessarily mean that doctors are evil. Many are ill-trained. Many are pressured by their hospitals or surgery centers to do more surgeries.
Get a second opinion. It could save your life.
