Undergoing orthopedic surgery is a big decision that can profoundly impact your life. Whether you are considering spinal surgery, joint replacement, or any other orthopedic surgery, it’s essential to approach it with careful forethought and thorough preparation.
Taking the necessary steps before surgery will contribute to a successful surgery outcome and set the stage for a quick and smoother recovery.
Let’s discuss how you can prepare for orthopedic surgery to ensure a successful procedure and smooth recovery and where you can go for this surgery in Little Rock, AR.
Attend Pre-operative Visit
Your orthopedic surgeon will make an appointment with you well before your surgery. In this appointment, your orthopedic surgeon and surgical team will perform a pre-operative evaluation.
During this appointment, your surgeon will discuss your surgery, its procedure, and potential risks and expected outcomes with you. They will also perform physical exams and review your medical history and other tests such as blood tests, X-rays, or MRI scans. They will also learn the necessary information about you and your orthopedic problem.
Follow Pre-Op Instructions
During your pre-op visit, your orthopedic surgeon will also provide you with specific instructions to follow before your surgery.
These instructions may include guidelines on eating and drinking restrictions, medication to take or avoid, and surgical site preparation, such as shaving or cleansing the area. Your orthopedic surgeon may also recommend you work with a physical therapist to prepare your body for surgery.
Additionally, your pre-op instructions may include the following:
Manage Your Existing Health Conditions
Certain existing healthcare conditions of the patient can interfere with the surgery results and may increase the risk of surgical complications. So, manage any existing health conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes, you have before surgery.
It is best to adjust the dosage of your medications and monitor certain health parameters to control your chronic health condition.
Adjust Your Lifestyle
Make any necessary adjustments in your lifestyle to optimize your general health. These adjustments may include reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, doing light physical activities, etc.
Avoid any food or medication you may be sensitive to, even if you are not allergic to them.
Prepare Your Home
Your orthopedic doctor may also advise you to make your home recovery friendly. Ensure a comfortable, clean, and safe home environment. Prepare your food in advance, and set up essential items such as medical supplies, toiletries, assistive devices, and comfortable clothing.
Get All Your Ducks in A Row
On your surgery day, bring all the necessary documentation like your insurance card, copies of any legal document, name and contact information of your primary contact while you are in the operation theatre, a small amount of cash, and a pair of comfortable cloth which you can change into after surgery.
Orthopedic Surgery in Little Rock, AR
If you think your orthopedic condition might need surgery, consult our board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Hefley. Our orthopedic surgeon will thoroughly assess your condition and determine if you need surgery for the treatment of your unique condition or injury.
Our orthopedic surgeon and surgical staff will also provide you with the necessary information and education about your surgery, pre-surgical preparations, and post-operative recovery phase.
If you are interested in making an appointment with our orthopedic surgeon, call us today at (800) 336-2412 or use this convenient request form.
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