ABSTRACT
The relationship between the patient and the surgeon is primarily a human interaction. It begins with a mutual recognition of that humanity and relies on a trust on the part of the patient and a commitment by the surgeon to place the welfare of that patient as paramount. The initial communication between the two must therefore allow that relationship to develop. Although colorectal surgery may be an everyday event for the surgeon, it is impossible to overstate the magnitude of this intervention in the eyes of the patient. Those presenting for colorectal surgery have often just received news of a diagnosis that they had not expected, and face the coming surgery with dread. It is important that the surgeon recognizes this fact and seeks not only to explain the procedure but also to reassure the patient, bringing their expectations into line with the likely sequence of events before, during, and after surgery. Careful preoperative planning and preparation can reduce patient anxiety, prevent complications, and optimize the patient’s perioperative course.
