Preparing for Surgery and the Recovery Process
If your doctor has recommended you have surgery, rest assured you’re in capable hands at Iowa Orthopedic Specialists. Our highly trained orthopedic surgeons and orthopedic care team are with you each step of the way, from surgery preparation to post-operative care.
Guidelines For Surgery Preparation and Surgery Recovery
Getting Ready for Surgery
Make sure in advance of surgery you are eating well, staying active, and getting plenty of sleep. We will contact you the day before your surgery to review any special instructions or procedures. You may also undergo a pre-operative exam in advance of your surgery, though this exam is done on a case-by-case basis.
Do not consume any food or drink after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes gum and mints. Additionally, we ask that you do not smoke or consume alcohol for at least 48 hours prior to surgery.
Day of Surgery
You will be asked to arrive several hours before your surgery. This will give our orthopedic care team time to get you signed in and prepared for surgery, including consulting with an anesthesiologist and placing an IV. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes, and avoid wearing any makeup or jewelry.
Following Surgery
If you are having an outpatient surgery, in which you do not stay overnight at the hospital, it’s important to have a responsible adult who can drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Make sure you closely follow your orthopedic surgeon’s post-surgical treatment plan and take advantage of rehabilitation services offered by Iowa Orthopedic Specialists, such as physical therapy.
Iowa Orthopedic Specialists
At Iowa Orthopedic Specialists, our caring and attentive orthopedic physicians, orthopedic surgeons, and orthopedic care team are committed to providing high-quality orthopedic care to you and your family. With a top-tier orthopedic surgical facility and support from surgery preparation to recovery, we’re committed to making your surgical experience go as smoothly as possible.
