Preparing for Surgery
You should not have any solid foods after midnight before your operation.
After this you may drink only clear liquids (for example, water, cordial, black coffee or sports drinks) until four hours before surgery.
If you take any blood thinning medications (asprin, clopidogrel, warfarin, clexane etc) you must discuss with Dr de Clercq whether they must be stopped or continued during your surgery.
You should not take glucosamine, fish oil or any natural/ herbal/ alternative supplements within 1 week of surgery. These substances can thin blood and increase the risk of bleeding.
If you take medication for diabetes (insulin or tablets) you must discuss with your Dr de Clercq and/or your Anaesthetist what you should do with these medications. Generally you should not take diabetic medication in the morning whilst fasting before surgery.
Some tablets including blood pressure medications are necessary and should be taken with a small sip of water even whilst fasting.
Sleep apnoea increases the risks of an anaesthetic. If you normally use a CPAP machine at home, you must bring this to hospital with you.
Smoking increases the risks of your anaesthetic and surgery. Not only does if affect your lungs but also the immune system making you more prone to infections and poor healing. You should avoid smoking for as long as possible before having any surgery.
Surgery can put the body under tremendous stress. Whilst waiting for major surgery you should:
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Maintain regular physical activity
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid smoking
Please contact our office if you have any questions.