You will be instructed to attend a pre-surgical assessment. Any pre-operative labs and tests will be done during this time. If you are a female of child bearing age a pregnancy test is mandatory unless you have had a hysterectomy or tubal ligation. You are asked to bring proof of insurance, a list of the medications you are taking, including any supplements, and a list of any allergies to food or medication you have. Be sure and bring a copy of your Living Will and/or Advanced Directive to the pre-surgical assessment appointment. It is very important to bring all your documents regarding your surgery from the physicians' office with you. A nurse and an anesthesiologist will interview you and ask you about your medical and surgical history; they will also have you state in your own words what your procedure will be and verify if this is correct. You will be instructed to be on a full liquid diet the day before surgery. This can include cream soups, milkshakes, Jell-O, Popsicles and broth. You will also be instructed to not take anything by mouth (NPO) after midnight the day before surgery.

•  Qualification/Criteria •  Medical Tests •  Preparations •  Packing For Your Stay •  Before the Operation •  During the Operation •  After the Operation •  At Home •  Diet •  Follow Up

You will be required to attend a mandatory Pre-Op Education and Nutrition Class. It is a two-hour class that will give you instructions related to the surgery (pre-op and post-op) and the post-op diet.

You will be instructed to go to the Peri-op area on the day of surgery. A nurse will assist you in preparing for surgery and an IV will be started in your arm, which is necessary to maintain your body fluids. Usually the IV is in your forearm or the back of your hand but the exact placement depends on your body structure. The nurse will also give you a pair of compression stockings and apply a sequential compression device (SCD) or plexi pulse boots to your legs or feet, which is necessary to prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.

You will be taken down to the operating room holding area, where you will meet a registered nurse. She will ask you questions regarding your health and make sure you have been informed of the risks and benefits to your surgery. You will also meet with an anesthesiologist and/or certified nurse anesthetist (CRNA). They will explain to you that medication will be injected into your I.V. line, which will put you to sleep during the surgery. After surgery you will wake up in the recovery room.

It is normal to have questions regarding your care; you should write down your questions to help you remember them.