So You are Going for Surgery
by Jill Daigle
Going for surgery can be scary, but it doesn’t have
to be. There are many things that need to be done to
get ready for surgery. First you must meet with your
surgeon; this is often called a consult appointment.
Bringing a list of questions you have with you is
helpful. At this appointment, the surgeon will examine
you and may run some tests. Once the surgical need is
determined, you will be scheduled for your surgery and
if your surgeon requests it, a pre-operative appointment
is made to meet with a surgical nurse and an Anesthesia
provider. If the surgeon does not make this request,
this may be because you are relatively healthy, however,
if you still wish to meet with a surgical nurse and
anesthesia provider, you may request to do so.
During the pre-operative appointment, you will
be asked about your medical and surgical history and
what medications you take. The anesthesia provider
will explain your options for anesthesia. The anesthesia
provider will look at your procedure, anesthetic options
and your medical history and explain the risks and
benefits of each. Together you will decide what option
is best for you. You may require diagnostic tests or
an appointment to see your primary care provider to
ensure that you are healthy enough for your surgery. It
is recommended to have all tests performed before the
day of surgery so the results can be reviewed by your
caregiver to avoid any delays or cancellation of your
surgery.
You will be asked to take nothing by mouth after
midnight prior to your surgery. The reasons for these
precautions are for your own safety and to help your
anesthesia provider to protect your lungs. Discuss with
anesthesia or your surgeo