Surgery After Being Hit in St. Louis Car Crash

The decision of when to get surgery after a car accident in St. Louis depends on several factors and should not be made solely on location. Here's a breakdown of key considerations to guide you:

Severity of Injuries:

Emergency Surgery: Certain life-threatening injuries require immediate surgery, regardless of location. Internal bleeding, severe fractures requiring immediate stabilization, or injuries compromising vital organs necessitate emergency surgery.
Non-Emergency Surgery: For other injuries, the decision becomes more nuanced. Some injuries might heal well on their own with proper medical management (casting, physical therapy), while others benefit significantly from surgical intervention.

Doctor's Recommendation:

Consulting with a Qualified Doctor: Ultimately, the best course of action is determined by a consultation with a licensed physician specializing in your specific injury. They'll assess the severity of your injuries, potential for non-surgical healing, and the risks and benefits of surgery.
Considering Specialist Opinions: For complex injuries, consulting with an orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, or other specialists might be necessary to determine the optimal treatment approach, including surgery.

Factors Influencing Surgical Timing:

Minimizing Risks: In some cases, doctors might recommend delaying surgery to allow swelling and inflammation to subside, reducing risks during surgery.
Promoting Healing: For certain injuries, like bone fractures, some stability might be needed before surgery for optimal healing.
Addressing Long-Term Issues: Some surgeries address potential long-term complications that might arise if left untreated. For instance, some fractures can cause chronic pain or instability if not surgically repaired.

Personal Considerations:

Pain Management: If your injuries cause significant pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep, surgery might be recommended to improve your quality of life.
Returning to Work and Activities: Surgery might be necessary to restore function and allow you to return to work or your usual activities.
Psychological Impact: Living with a painful or debilitating injury can take a toll on your mental well-being. Surgery might be considered if it can improve your physical and mental state.

Additional Resources in St. Louis:

Missouri Bar Association: https://mobar.org/ can help you find a qualified personal injury lawyer who can advise you on your legal rights and options after a car accident.
Washington University School of Medicine: https://medicine.wustl.edu/ This website provides patient resources and information on various medical specialties, potentially helpful in finding a specialist for your injuries.

Remember: Communicate openly with your doctor about your concerns, recovery goals, and any reservations you might have about surgery. Working together, you can make an informed decision about the best course of treatment for your specific situation.