By Paul Ruggieri, MD

Author of "The Surgery Handbook" A Guide To Understanding Your Operation

If you are scheduled to go for surgery here are some informational tips to help you prepare for surgery.

Checking a Surgeon’s Credentials

When you have a surgeon in mind or when one has been recommended, it is wise to check both his or her credentials as well as experience in the operating room. It may also be helpful to understand how surgeons are educated and trained.

Learning about Your Operation

Don’t hesitate to ask questions and re-ask them if you do not clearly understanding an answer. The surgeon and his or her staff will be your best source of information. Don’t feel intimidated or think the surgeon will be offended by your questions. You and your loved ones have a right to know all about your operation.

The Night Before Surgery

Being anxious is very natural. Don’t be self-critical over the fact that you’re worried or frightened. Instead, concentrate on what you need to do to be ready in the morning. The more organized you are the less stress you’ll feel. This is a good time to review your list of things to do prior to leaving for the hospital. Confirm the time you’ll leave for the hospital with your spouse, family member, friend or whom ever will be taking you.

Surgery Begins

Just moments before the operation begins, your body will be covered with sterile surgical drapes, exposing only the surgery site. These drapes will help keep the transfer of bacteria at the surgical site to a minimum. The drapes will also allow the surgical team to concentrate their full attention on the surgical area.

Leaving the Hospital

Before your operation, you probably discussed with your doctor how much time you would spend in the hospital. Most surgeons should be able to provide a reasonable time estimate based on the type of surgery. Insurance companies also are interested in these estimates, and often grant approval to cover you for only a certain number of days. If the estimate your surgeon provides and the number of days are different, you may wish to call your insurance company to discuss what happens if you must stay longer.

Recovering at Home

Your surgery and time in the hospital are over. It’s time to return home. Just walking through the door into that familiar environment should boost your morale. Hopefully, your support system-family, friends, even pets – will aid your continued recovery.

• Expect to feel some pain or fatigue. The following symptoms are normal during recovery at home:
• Pain, discomfort, and or a pulling sensation that are relieved by pain medication and do not increase in intensity
• Minor bleeding or drainage stain covering a small portion of the bandage
• Redness (develops in about a week)around staples or sutures only, meaning it is time for them to be removed
• Diminished appetite
• Fatigue

When to call the Doctor

• Some problems at home demand immediate attention. If you notice any of the following warning signs call your physician or emergency services immediately.
• A fever of 101degrees F. or higher within the first twenty-four to forty eight hours after surgery
• Substantial or constant nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness, dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual/excessive bleeding or bruising
• Signs of infection at your incision, including swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or drainage, particularly if it has an odor
• Pain that medication does not relieve
• Pain beyond the incision site that keeps getting worse, such as chest pain that spreads to the jaw or arm

For more information about the "The Surgery Handbook" A guide to understanding your operation, Author

Dr. Paul Ruggieri - go to www.addicusbooks.com

back