How to Prepare for Surgery
Before Your Surgery
A nurse from the center will contact you at least 24 hours before your surgery. If no one has called, please call the center for instructions.
Notify your surgeon if there is a change in your physical condition such as a cold, fever or respiratory problems.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your operation, including no hard candy or gum. If your child is the patient, please be careful to enforce this.
Also, please follow any other special instructions your surgeon may have given you. Failure to follow these instructions may result in cancellation of your surgery.
Please be sure to tell your surgeon if you are on any type of blood thinners or aspirin. Please do not take any medications after midnight unless instructed by your surgeon or the nurse at our center.
It is very important to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and remain with you the first 24 hours after surgery.
The Day of Surgery
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is big enough to accommodate a large bandage after surgery. Wear comfortable shoes.
Please bring a sweater or small blanket as the waiting room can often be cool.
You will need to change into a surgical gown. Only cotton underwear can be worn.
Do not wear any jewelry (including body piercings), makeup, cologne, or nail polish. We encourage the removal of artificial nails.
Bring your drivers license and insurance cards with you. Please bring some form of payment.
Wearing contact lenses is NOT advised. We provide containers for removable dentures and bridgework.
If your child is having surgery, feel free to bring a favorite stuffed animal or security blanket for added assurance.
After Your Surgery
You will be discharged to your car by wheelchair. If anesthesia has been administered, you must have a responsible adult present to drive you home and to care for you following surgery, and to remain with you the first 24 hours.
Your physician will provide postoperative instructions regarding diet, rest, exercise and medications. You will be provided with a written summary of these discharge instructions.
A nurse from the Surgery Center will attempt to call you the day after your surgery to check on your progress and discuss any questions you may have. If you have any unexpected problems, please call your doctor. If he/ she does not respond, please go to the nearest emergency room.
Helpful Reminders
Please arrange for a responsible adult to remain in the surgery center the entire time you are scheduled for your procedure.
Please limit the number of family or friends who come with you. Seating is very limited.
If you are driving more than 30 minutes, put one or two pillows in your car so you can elevate the operative extremity.
Females will need to give a urine sample for a pregnancy test preoperatively.