As you write your letter, keep in mind that "a code for the 'Application of an adhesion barrier for the prevention of adhesions' " is the focus. Then relate - from your experience - the experiences you've had as a result of adhesion surgeries. If an adhesion barrier was used, be sure to mention it! ~ ~ ~ ~
Dr. Wiseman listed the following questions in his letter - to give adhesion sufferers some examples as to what to include in these letters to the government.
1. How many times has a health professional told you that adhesions don't cause pain or problems?
2. How many times have you come across health professionals, who have never heard of adhesion barriers?
3. How many times have you come across health professionals, who are unwilling to use adhesion barriers?
4. Have you been affected by adhesions due to previous surgeries and then told they are not a problem?
5. Have you experienced a disease or illness requiring multiple surgeries?
6. Have you experienced a significant reduction in quality of life due to adhesions?
7. Have you experienced a lack of willingness by your physician to use adhesion barriers?
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Here are additional examples that may be helpful when you write your letter:
1. How many surgeries have you had to endure because of adhesions? Kind of surgery: laparotomy or laparoscopy? What year was each surgery done?
2.) Did any surgery for adhesions cause complications for you: such as loss of any abdominal/pelvic organs, inadvertant nicks by the surgeon into vital organs, or peritonitis?
3. Was an adhesion barrier - such as: Interceed, Seprafilm, or Intergel - used for any of these surgeries.
4. Did you experience any side effects because of the use of an adhesion barrier - such as inflammation, etc.?
5. If an adhesion barrier was used in any of your surgeries, did it help? Or did your adhesion problems become worse?
6. If an adhesion barrier was used in any of your surgeries, are you still pain-free today?