Preoperative Instructions for Surgical Patients

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Safety is our top priority when it comes to surgery. Pre-operative instructions need to be followed closely to ensure successful outcomes.

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Feeling unwell just before surgery?

If you become ill sometime just before your scheduled surgery, it is important that you make sure we know.

It may mean your surgery needs to be postponed. Why? Any kind of infection can travel to the site of the surgery. This is specialiy important if we need to insert any implants. Furthermore, if respiratory system is congested, it can be a problem for you having anesthesia — your lungs need to be clear before receiving anesthesia. If in doubt, consult your primary care provider (GP, doctor) as they may need to ascertain your condition. This may be needed before going forward with your surgery.

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Medications and Supplements.

Many medications and few supplements can adversely react with your anaesthesia and cause problems such as reduced blood clotting. We need to know all medications and supplements you are currently taking.

Patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs, will be advised to stop taking these medications few days prior to surgery. This goes for over-the-counter inflammatories including aspirin, ibuprofen, and voltarol, as well. They need to be halted up to one week prior to surgery.

 

Patients on aspirin or warfarin therapy (or any other anti-coagulants) must speak to our team and to their doctor (GP) and discuss any dosing adjustments before surgery.

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Blood tests and other investigations.

Before surgery, certain laboratory examinations may be needed, including blood and urine tests. For most of our patients especially who is over 40 years old, a medical clearance may be needed. This may be also achieved by anaesthetist’s review before going for the surgical procedure. In few cases, your anaesthetist may arrange for further investigation for your heart, kidney..etc. 

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Grooming.

Before surgery, it is required to remove any finger or toenail polish to facilitate monitoring of your blood circulation. Any new wounds, abscesses, infection must be reported to the surgeon or nurse to avoid cancelling the procedure on the scheduled day.

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Surgery appointment.

You may be asked to arrive at the hospital or facility where your surgery is scheduled several hours in advance of your appointment time. 

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