Practical Question: How does one plan for surgery?

It looks like a couple of our members are having surgeries in the near future. So last week's discussion centered on preparing for a surgery.

Everyone's circumstances vary, of course. But the following are pointers from my own personal and clinical observations that might help you someday.

• If you have the "luxury" of a scheduled surgery, rather than an emergency surgery, pick a date that serves you and your loved ones best.
• Ask your surgeon, "What can I do to ensure the best recovery possible?"
• Think and plan ahead. Pay your bills, do your laundry, clean your house - or hire someone to help you. Come home to a clean, ordered living space.
• Ask about post-operative foods. You may be advised to eat more protein, for example. 
• Constipation is a common problem for people who require post-operative narcotics. Increase your fluid intake and eat fresh fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation. 
• Simple, easy-to-prepare meals will be helpful. There's nothing wrong with prepared foods, but do check your labels for sodum, calories, and protein.

• If you use a sleep apnea device, i.e., CPAP, ask when you shoud start using it post-op. Remember that narcotics can worsen sleep apnea - temporarily, of course.
• Blood clots in your lower extremities can be life-threatening. Prevent them by getting up and moving around; at least, wiggle your toes!
• Ask your surgeon about mobility - and mobility assistance. Depending on your surgery, you might benefit from a rolling walker or cane during your early recovery. These can be selected by a physical therapist and often delivered to your home.
• Make sure you have your regular medications - and any special post-op medications available. Prepare a "medi-set" ahead of time.
• Expect to feel overly stimulated when you make a trip to the pharmacy or grocery store - even overwelmed! It will pass. Plan on making no more than one out-of-house excursion per day in the early post-op period.
• It's normal to feel more tired, so take naps and allow yourself to rest.

• Taking deep breaths and coughing can actually prevent a pneumonia. Ask your nurse how to "splint,"i.e., how to support your incision by pressing a pillow against yourself.
• Concerned about bathing and shampooing? Rinseless shampoo can be purchased on-line or in a beauty supply store.
• When it's time to go back to work, consider returning on a Thursday or Friday. That way, you can go for a shorter time and have the weekend to recover.
• If you're going back to work for partial days, be sure to rest in the morning and go to work in the afternoon. If you start your workday in the morning, you'll never get away!
• Post-op blues or depression aren't uncommon, but ask your doctor if depression lingers.
• If you will be limited in mobility for more than a couple of weeks, ask your doctor for a temporary disability parking permit.

Be sure to ask your questions. There are no stupid questions - except, perhaps, for the ones you don't ask!

Remember, we're all in this together.
Linda Gromko,MD