Pre-Operative Instructions

Pre-Operative Instructions in General

Pre-Operative Instructions For CarotidEndarterectomy?

Prior to all general surgical or gastrointestinal operations, there is always some preparation involved. First, most patients who undergo an operation requiring a general anesthetic, a spinal anesthetic or a procedure where heavy sedation will be used, need to refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the evening prior to their procedure (unless otherwise instructed by their surgeon). You may be instructed by the surgeon or the anesthesiologist to take certain medications with a sip of water on the morning of surgery. However, some medications should be withheld starting as long as three to seven days prior (e.g. blood thinners such as Coumadin, or aspirin-containing products). It is helpful to bring a list of your medications, including the specific dosages, to your office appointment and to your preadmission testing appointment so that these can be reviewed with the surgeon and the anesthesiologist. You will then be instructed on which medicines you may take.

Prior to many surgical procedures, there are certain bowel preparations that must be taken. The simplest preparation that can be taken is to have clear liquids only on the day prior to the procedure. Other operations, such as colon and rectal surgery, require that the small and large intestine be completely cleared out of any contents. Be sure to ask your surgeon for the specific preparation you will need on the day (or days) prior to your surgery.

Certain medical issues require preoperative consultation prior to surgery. In particular, if you have a history of coronary artery disease, lung problems, dental problems, nerve or muscle weakness, or if you have had a problem with anesthesia in the past, you should notify your surgeon on the day of your initial consultation. Oftentimes, we try to facilitate a consultation with a medical specialist, such as a cardiologist, prior to your preadmission testing appointment so that any medical issues can be addressed in advance.