Surgery to Repair Hernia – patient information to assist informed consent

This RACS patient education pamphlet provides information on the surgical repair of hernia. The topics discussed include abdominal hernia, indirect inguinal hernia, what to expect before and after surgery, and the possible complications of surgery to repair hernia.

The different surgical procedures described are: laparotomy (open surgery), laparoscopic surgery and the Lichtenstein tension-free method. The surgical procedures discussed have accompanying anatomical illustrations to help increase the patients’ understanding of each surgery.

This leaflet can be a useful tool for patients considering undergoing hernia repair with the use of surgical mesh. The benefits, risks and limitations of surgical mesh are discussed in detail to assist the informed-consent process.

Mi-tec publishes 31 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons patient information brochures. The surgical repair of hernia is described in plain English to assist the patients’ understanding of health information and to help patients make informed decisions. The RACS patient information brochures are printed in five-colour on high-quality A4 sheets.

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery – patient information to assist informed consent

This RACS patient education pamphlet provides surgical information on the laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder (laparoscopic cholecystectomy). The topics discussed include:
-   Gallbladder anatomy and physiology
-   Symptoms and complications of gallstones
-   What to expect before and after surgery
-   Laparoscopy and its benefits

This leaflet can be a useful tool for patients considering undergoing surgical treatment for the relief of severe symptoms caused by gallstones, such as pain, nausea and vomiting.

The laparoscopy procedure is described in detail with accompanying anatomical illustrations, and the possibility of conversion to laparotomy is covered. The possible complications of surgery are listed on page 4 to assist the informed-consent process.

Mi-tec publishes 31 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons patient information brochures. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is described in plain English to assist the patients’ understanding of health information and to help patients make informed decisions. The RACS patient information brochures are printed in five-colour on high-quality A4 sheets.

Treatment of Varicose Veins and Other Problems with Veins – patient information to assist informed consent

This RACS patient education pamphlet provides information on the treatment of varicose veins. The topics discussed include:

• Anatomy and physiology of veins
• Varicose veins and spider veins
• Symptoms of abnormal veins, such as eczema and skin ulcers
• Non-surgical treatment options, such as surgical support stockings and bandages

The surgical removal of varicose veins is described in detail for severe cases and patients at risk of serious problems. Other treatment options outlined include:

• Endovenous laser therapy (ELT)
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Injection sclerotherapy

This leaflet can be a useful tool for patients as the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment are discussed in detail. The possible complications of surgery and injection treatment are listed to assist the informed-consent process.

Mi-tec publishes 31 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons patient information brochures. The treatment of varicose veins is described in plain English to assist the patients’ understanding of health information and to help patients make informed decisions. The RACS patient information brochures are printed in five-colour on high-quality A4 sheets.