Spinal surgery is a delicate procedure that requires most patients to be prepped weeks or months beforehand. Considering how important physical and emotional well-being are to the success of any surgery, pre-op assumes an important place in the scheme of things, as it reduces surgical risks considerably. It also helps a patient to learn more about the process and provides enough time for doctors to evaluate a patient’s condition. But what does this evaluation process entail? Find out below.
Medical Clearance
It is important for the surgical patient to be in good health; otherwise, complications might arise. To determine the state of the person’s mind and body, the surgeon may recommend a general medical examination. The tests are conducted by the patient’s primary care physician and involve blood samples, urine samples, echocardiograms, EKGs, etc.
Medication
A patient needs to prepare a list of medications that he/ she will need for the duration of the hospital stay. If you are going for surgery, make sure that you do not bring any of your own meds. The pharmacy at the medical center will provide the drugs you need. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the availability of your medication, feel free to discuss them with your physician before you’re admitted for the procedure.
Diet
It is important that the patient follows the dietary instructions given by the physician. Depending on a patient’s existing conditions, there may be restrictions on specific food items as well as when you should stop eating/drinking the day before the surgery.
Braces
Some spinal surgeries are so serious that the patient has to wear a back or neck brace afterward. So, as per the doctor’s orders, the patient must be fitted for the brace before the surgery.
Duration of Hospital Stay
Usually, a patient must stay in the hospital for up to four days, depending on the type of spinal surgery he/she has undergone. So, it is important to mentally prepare oneself. Once the patient has been released from the hospital, he or she might need help with daily activities like dressing, bathing, shopping, and cooking during the recuperative period, so it is important to arrange for help.
Be Prepared for Complications
The majority of surgeries go smoothly without any problems. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and for that reason the patient needs to be prepared for possible complications. Lung congestion, blood clots, and infection are possible side effects after a surgical procedure. The physician must review these risks with the patient before moving ahead with the procedure.
A good doctor understands the importance of pre-op and the critical role it plays in determining the success of any spinal surgeries. Contact any of our Florida Wellness Medical Group branches to experience the best in pre-op care. We will make sure you have all the information at your disposal before the surgery.