Preparing for Surgery
Preparing for surgery involves several steps, including pre-operative tests, fitness assessments, understanding what to expect in the hospital, and considering genomics for personalised care. Remember that specific instructions may vary based on the type of surgery and your individual health condition.
Pre-operative Blood Tests
- Blood tests are performed to assess your overall health and any underlying medical conditions.
- These tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), and tests for kidney and liver function.
Imaging Studies (CT, MRI, etc.)
- Imaging studies like CT scans or MRI may be advised to provide detailed images of the area where surgery is planned.
- These tests help the surgical team understand the anatomy and plan the procedure accordingly.
Genomic Testing
- Genomic testing involves analysing your DNA to identify genetic variations that may impact your response to certain medications or your susceptibility to certain conditions.
- This information can help personalise your treatment plan and the choice of medication.
Fitness for Surgery
- Our healthcare team will assess your overall health and fitness for surgery.
- This assessment may include checking your heart and lung function, evaluating your ability to recover from surgery, and identifying any potential complications.
Pre-operative Instructions
- Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions about fasting before surgery, medications to avoid, and other pre-operative guidelines.
- Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful surgery.
What to Expect in the Hospital
- On the day of surgery, you’ll likely check in at the hospital or surgical centre.
- You’ll be prepared for surgery, which may involve changing into a hospital gown and having an IV line inserted for fluids and medications.
Duration of Stay
- The duration of your hospital stay is dependent on the type of surgery and your individual recovery.
- Some surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, while others may require a longer hospital stay.
Post-operative Care
- After surgery, you’ll be monitored in the recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room or sent home.
- Follow post-operative care instructions, including medication schedules, wound care, and any restrictions on activity.
Genomics and Personalized Medicine
- Genomic information can be used to tailor your treatment plan.
- This may include selecting medications based on your genetic profile, identifying potential risks, and optimising recovery strategies.
Follow-up Care
- Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Communicate if there are any concerns or unusual symptoms to your healthcare team promptly.
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Always communicate openly with your healthcare team, ask questions, and address any concerns you may have. The more informed and prepared you are, the better you can actively participate in your own healthcare.
