A surgical consultation typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Bringing a written list of questions keeps the conversation focused on the information that actually shapes your outcome. The questions below are grouped so you can print them and mark answers during the visit.
Surgeon experience
- Do you primarily perform excision, not only ablation?
- How many endometriosis cases do you do each year?
- How often do you treat deep infiltrating disease?
- Do you have specific training in endometriosis surgery?
- Are you involved in teaching or research in endometriosis?
Team readiness
- Do you operate with colorectal surgeons when bowel disease is suspected?
- Do you operate with urology or urogynecology for bladder or ureter disease?
- How is my case reviewed before surgery?
- Who is in the operating room besides you?
Imaging and pathology
- Do you require expert MRI or mapping ultrasound before complex cases?
- Who reads my imaging?
- Do you send all removed tissue to pathology?
- How is my operative report shared with me and my home physician?
Fertility and hormones
- How do fertility goals change your surgical plan?
- How do you protect ovarian reserve when treating endometriomas?
- Do you coordinate with a reproductive endocrinologist?
Follow-up and outcomes
- What follow-up is included, and for how long?
- How are complications handled?
- What is your approach if pain persists after surgery?
Consultation question tracker
| Question | Why it matters | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Do you excise, ablate, or both? | Deep disease usually needs excision | |
| Annual endometriosis case volume | Experience shapes outcomes | |
| Colorectal + urology available? | Needed for DIE with bowel/bladder involvement | |
| Imaging protocol and reader | Endometriosis-experienced reading matters | |
| Pathology on all specimens? | Confirms diagnosis and lesion type | |
| Fertility coordination | Sequences surgery vs IVF appropriately | |
| Follow-up length and format | Ongoing care avoids being 'lost to follow-up' |
What this means for patients
Answers to these questions do more than test the surgeon — they tell you whether the operation is being planned for your specific anatomy and goals or applied off the shelf.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a surgeon is truly an excision specialist?
Ask directly about excision case volume, how often they treat deep disease, and whether all tissue is sent to pathology. Ask to see operative reports or de-identified examples if possible.
Should I ask about robotic surgery specifically?
Ask whether robotic surgery is used, when, and why — but focus on excision technique and team, not the platform.
What if my surgeon does not have colorectal or urology backup?
For confirmed or suspected bowel, bladder, or ureter disease, that is a reason to seek a center that does.
Is it rude to ask these questions?
No. Experienced specialists expect and welcome them.
How many opinions should I get?
A second opinion is reasonable for complex disease, prior failed surgery, or when recommendations differ significantly.
What red flags should I watch for?
Guarantees of cure, dismissive answers about pathology, unwillingness to explain the plan, and refusal to coordinate with other specialists.
Should I bring someone with me?
Yes — a partner or friend can take notes and remember questions you might miss.