Before the Operation
The preparation for surgery will vary depending on what operation you are having. Preparation might include knowing how to prepare your home for when you return home after your surgery or how to calm your nerves before surgery.
Before you have your surgery a number of things may need to be done to ensure the operation can be performed safely.
You may be asked to stop some medications, such as blood thinning drugs, prior to your surgery. Dr MacKenzie and your anaesthetist will provide you with specific instructions regarding any medication changes needed.
If you are having a hip or knee replacement you may be asked to get special pre-operative x-rays for planning purposes. If you are having robot-assisted surgery you will need to have a CT scan done prior to the surgery for pre-operative robotic planning. If you are having a patient specific knee replacement you will need to have an MRI scan done approximately 6 weeks prior to the surgery to allow for planning and manufacture of the patient specific instruments.
You may need to see the anaesthetist or another medical specialist prior to surgery. You may also be asked to see a physiotherapist or rehabilitation physician prior to your surgery.
The hospital will contact you, usually the evening before your surgery, to let you know what time to come to the hospital and where to present yourself. They will also provide you with any other necessary details at that time.
The Day of Surgery
You will be asked to have nothing to eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to your surgery. This is very important, as your surgery may be cancelled if you eat or drink before your operation. This often involves being asked to fast after midnight the night before surgery.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown prior to being taken on a bed to the anaesthetic room which is just outside the operating theatre.
Dr MacKenzie will see you prior to going into the operating theatre to confirm the correct surgical plan and to mark the surgical site. You will have the opportunity to ask any further questions you might have at this time.
The anaesthetist will discuss the anaesthetic with you prior to surgery and make a plan that is appropriate for you.
After your operation is complete, you will be taken to the recovery ward while you come out of the anaesthetic. From recovery you will be taken either to the ward if you are staying overnight or to day stay if you are going home the same day.
