Preparation for surgery
Whether you are only considering surgery or if it's been booked, there are a number of things you can do to improve your chance of a good result. They have been broken down into time-based guidelines, but it's never too late to start any of these interventions
Months to weeks before
Pre-habilitation
Improving strength, balance and range of motion will help prior to any surgery. Talk to your physio about a regime or consider downloading a self- guided app to help.
Quit smoking
Quitting smoking at any point will lead to innumerable benefits to your life, your wallet and your outcomes from surgery. Talk to your GP about assisting with the steps in quitting or visit Quit.org.au
Weight loss
Two-thirds Australians are overweight or obese, and this has impacts on almost every organ in the body. Weight loss, even 5-10% may have significant impacts on your joint pain, and will reduce your anaesthetic and surgical risks.
Blood sugar control
If you are diabetic, or are at risk of diabetes, tight glycaemic control (HbA1c <8) is imperative for reducing you complication risk in joint replacement. Ensure you have been reviewed by your diabetic educator or GP.
GP check-up
Prior to any major surgery or anaesthetic, it is recommended that you have a GP review for a general check up and to ensure any chronic medical conditions are controlled.
Pre-operative workup
In addition to your GP review, you may have an anaesthetic review and a set of specific blood tests, ECG and any other investigations deemed necessary prior to your surgery. This may include specific imaging that may be required for surgical planning.
1-2 weeks before
Avoid cuts or grazes
Infection is one of the biggest risks in orthopaedic surgery, and we do everything we can to minimise it. If you sustain a cut or abrasion, small amounts of bacteria may colonise the wound. In an elective setting, all cuts and grazes need to be clean and healed before an operation. For two weeks before your operation, avoid any risky activities including gardening or maintenance.
Post-operative care
Ensure you have arranged leave and have adequate supports at home prior to your admission to hospital, including clearing loose rugs and making day-to-day necessities accessible. Most orthopaedic surgeries will result in an inability to drive (both from a physical and legal perspective) and this may need to be considered.
Check medications
There are several medications that will require cessation up to 1-2 weeks before surgery. Ensure you've discussed all your medications with your pharmacists, anaesthetist or GP and mark down when they need to be stopped. This includes medications for diabetes, rheumatological conditions and blood thinners.
1-2 days before
Check medications
Make sure to do a further check of your medications, ensuring you have ceased or taken essential medications and have a copy of all the medications and doses you have. If possible, bring the packets in with you to ensure the correct doses, times and brands can be provided.
Confirm timing
Confirm where and when you need to be dropped off and ensure you have the fasting details.
Pack bags/imaging
Make sure you have toiletries and bags packed for your stay, including loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
The day of surgery
Fasting time
Ensure you've checked your fasting time and have adhered to this strictly. If you've been told you can have clear fluids until a certain time, this includes water, clear apple juice and black coffee. Nothing with milk.
Bring clothes and toiletries
Time for one last check of all your toiletries and essentials.
Chargers/Electronics/Book
Don't forget to pack chargers and entertainment for your stay. You may be waiting several hours for your surgery.
Summary
Ensure you have all the information you need and have optimised your chances of a good outcome from your operation. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the rooms and we will gladly assist.
