Frequently Asked Questions

BEFORE SURGERY

What should happen during the doctor's consultation?
The doctor will obtain a history and perform a physical examination. Information forwarded by your referring physician will be reviewed. Further tests may be ordered. If surgery is needed, it most likely will be scheduled at that time. Your surgeon will discuss the findings with you, what to expect from any procedures, and the risks involved.

Should you get a second opinion?
This is a personal decision and may be based on insurance requirements. Feel free to ask your surgeon.

How do you schedule surgery?
Surgery, if necessary, will be scheduled through our office. You will meet one of our surgery schedulers and they will set up the date, time, and place. Other instructions, such as further tests, when not to eat, etc., will also be reviewed by our staff.

Should you donate your own blood before surgery?
Most surgical procedures do not require blood transfusions. Occasionally, however, blood is required. Blood is given only when absolutely necessary and is checked thoroughly to make sure it is as safe as possible. If agreed upon by you and your surgeon, you may donate your own blood and this must be set up far in advance through the American Red Cross. Further information is available through the Red Cross, if desired.

What other tests may be needed before surgery?
Labs, x-rays, or other tests may be ordered during your visit. These will be scheduled during your visit and instructions will be given.

What should you do to prepare for surgery?
This is dependent upon your surgery. Most surgical procedures require that you not eat or drink past midnight the night before. Regular medications frequently are given the day of surgery with sips of water. Your surgeon and your anesthesiologist will review these and any special requirements with you.

AT THE HOSPITAL

What happens when you get to the hospital?
You will meet with a nurse who will obtain more information and check your blood pressure, temperature, etc. Further history and other paperwork will be completed. You will meet your anesthesiologist and they will explain which type of anesthesia will be best for your operation. You will change into a gown and will be taken to the "Holding Room" prior to surgery. An IV may be started. Medications to help you relax may be given. Ask questions if your are unsure or curious.

ABOUT ANESTHESIA

When do you see the Anesthesiologist?
During your preoperative interview at the hospital the day before surgery or sometimes of the day of surgery you will meet the anesthesiologist and they will discuss your anesthesia with you.

Is it normal to be nervous about anesthesia?
It is. Your anesthesiologist can address any questions or concerns you have.

AFTER SURGERY

What happens immediately after surgery?
You will wake up in the operating room and be taken to recovery. You may not remember waking up and this is normal. You will be closely monitored by a nurse and then taken back to the outpatient area or admitted, depending upon your procedure.

How will you feel immediately after surgery?
You will be groggy and may not remember much. This is normal. You will be asked frequently if you are experiencing pain and this will be treated in the Recovery Room by your nurse and doctor.

How soon can you see your family and friends?
Your family will join you in the outpatient area of in your room.

When will you use oral pain medication?
Your surgeon may order pain medication for all but the most minor procedures. You ill most likely be given a prescription when you leave the hospital. Pain is to be expected. The pain medications ordered will lessen pain, but will not remove all of it. Liberal use of pain medication as ordered is recommended in the first 24 hours. Unless otherwise directed, pain medication should be taken with food, as most pain medications can cause nausea or even vomiting. Nausea and vomiting are not uncommon after surgery, particularly after general anesthetic. If food is allowed, start slowly and with food that is easy to digest.
Pain medication frequently can cause constipation. Drink plenty of fluids after discharge to help prevent this unpleasant side effect of the medication. You may also take stool softener or mild laxative.

How soon can you eat after surgery?
This is dependent upon your particular type of surgery.

What activities will you be able to do in the Hospital?
You will be expected to get out of bed at least the after surgery. Your nurse will help you to a chair, for short walks, etc. on an ordered schedule. Staying in bed delays recovery. Your nurse will help as needed to get you up to a chair, bathroom, etc. Expect to be out of bed with help...you will get better faster.

RECOVERY AT HOME

How is recovery different if you have laparoscopic or other outpatient surgery?
Your recovery time and return to work, school, etc. is usually faster. Your doctor will tell you what activities to avoid at discharge. No driving is allowed after general anesthetic for at least 48 hours. Your doctor will review this with you.

What activities will you be able to do at home?
Instructions for activity will be reviewed prior to leaving the hospital.

When can you return to normal activity after laparoscopic surgery?
Usually you can return to light activity (walking, climbing up and down stairs, etc.) within 48 hours after laparoscopic surgery. Be up in the first 48 hours with expected short naps. Strenuous activity should be avoided during the first 48 hours. You frequently may return to work in 1-2 weeks following laporoscopic surgery. Your surgeon will instruct you on when to work, usually at your first postoperative visit.

What should you watch out for at home?
Mild oozing onto dressings is expected. Mild fevers (99-100.4) are not unusual the first night after surgery. Nausea can occur, especially with general anesthetic and oral pain medication. fatigue is not unusual especially in the first week. Discharge instructions will be given before you leave the hospital.

When will you see your doctor after you go home?
Usually 7-10 days unless otherwise instructed. A postoperative appointment will be made prior to leaving the hospital.

Remember... If you don't know something or don't understand something, ask The nurses at the hospital and your doctor want you to have answers before you leave the hospital. It helps you recover better if you know what to expect.

On weekends and most major holidays our office is closed. If you need to talk with the "On Call" physician, please call around 8:00 or 9:00 AM since, if you are advised to go to an Emergency Room to be seen, it is best to get this done early in the day.