Orthopedic surgery is common, with millions of procedures being performed every year. However, even though these procedures are performed on a regular basis, it is natural to feel nervous in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery date. Taking the time to learn what you should expect, as well as to make sure you are fully prepared for surgery, will alleviate your anxiety and help you feel better as you get ready for the procedure.

General Instructions Before Surgery

Before your surgery, you can take specific steps to improve the outcome and reduce the risk of complications. If you are overweight, for example, losing a few pounds before surgery is recommended. To make your recovery period as easy and stress-free as possible, consider preparing freezer meals in advance and arranging for another person to handle any other responsibilities you may have around the house.

You will not be permitted to drive yourself, so be sure to arrange for someone else to drive you to and from your procedure.

Packing for the Hospital

A few days before your surgery, make sure you have all the items you will need at the hospital, including:

• A list of medications you are taking
• A list of any drug and/or food allergies you have
• Your insurance card
• Medical proxy, Power of Attorney and/or Living Will

On the Night Before Surgery

When your procedure was scheduled, you most likely received a list of pre-operative instructions. Be sure to follow all of these instructions carefully. Discontinue any medications your doctor has asked you to stop taking before surgery, and make sure you stop eating and drinking at the appropriate time. Go to bed early so you can be well-rested on the day of your procedure.

On the Day of Surgery

Don’t eat or drink on the morning of your surgery. If you must take certain medications on the day of your surgery, take them with only a small sip of water. Make sure you take everything you packed for the procedure with you when you leave for the hospital or surgical center, and give yourself extra travel time so you can be sure to arrive before check-in.

When you arrive, staff members will guide you through the admissions process. You will then be taken back to surgery. After your procedure is complete, you will spend some time in recovery. Depending on the nature of your procedures as well as the outcome, you may need to spend one or more nights in the hospital.

As soon as your doctor clears you to go home, you will be discharged. Before leaving the hospital or surgical center, you will receive discharge instructions. Follow these instructions carefully and be sure to call your doctor if you develop any concerning symptoms, such as fever or severe pain.

At Prime Surgical Suites, we provide state-of-the-art, cost-effective musculoskeletal surgical care in a convenient and comfortable outpatient setting for patients of all ages. Located in RiverCrest Medical Park, we are the region's first outpatient center focused exclusively on orthopedics. Our physician-led center will help restore your active lifestyle and well-being with compassion and orthopedic excellence.