Wayne,
I had my tonsils out at Duke about 30 years ago and did not have a good experience.
The surgeon who assisted told me after the surgery that HE didn't see anything wrong with my tonsils. THAT's when I learned the importance of 2nd opinions.
Duke is already listed on the honor roll for the US News and World Reports Best Hospitals for 2007. Duke is coming in at #7 and tying with the University of California.
In spite of it's good rating, our local area here in New Bern seems to send Bladder Cancer Surgery referrals to UNC. I have no idea WHY this is so, however, I have heard only good things about individual experiences there. However, UNC is only rated #40 Cancer and #43 Urology so far this year.
October 22 is the date for your surgery? Is there a hospital in Cary or will you be going to Wake?
I have to be honest here, as it may be coming down the pike for me...if it were me having the surgery, I would definitely be going to UNC.
Your new friend,
Rosemary
health.usnews.com/sections/health/best-hospitals