"Having Surgery? What You Need to Know" helps patients make informed decisions when planning for surgery, said AHRQ Director Dr. Carolyn M. Clancy.

"In today's increasingly complex medical environment, patients would be well advised to learn as much about their surgery as possible and to discuss all of the options with their doctors and surgeons," Clancy said in a statement. "People tend to be more satisfied with their care when they know why they need surgery, whether effective options exist, which surgeons and hospitals are most qualified to perform their operation, and the potential risks and expected benefits."

The brochure suggests patients determine whether and how much of the cost of the operation will be covered by their insurance; whether a second opinion is required or covered; how they can learn the surgeon's qualifications for and experience with their particular procedure; and how to find out how many times the procedure has been performed in the hospital.