What To Expect
In the days or weeks prior to Surgery
Prior to your surgery, you may be asked to provide information about your medical history, Allergies, medications you take, prior surgeries, and your experiences with anesthesia in the past. At this time you may want to share the following information with your surgeon or anesthesiologist:
- Any adverse events with prior anesthetics such as nausea or vomiting
- Family members that had any anesthesia complications
- Severe sore throat after anesthesia or a “history of a difficult airway” that you have been told about
- Any information you were ever told to share with your anesthesiologist after past experiences
- Any test results you may have from your specialists like recent stress tests or echocardiograms
Sometimes you may meet your anesthesiologist the day of your surgery to discuss your anesthetic options and any concerns you may have. If however you have questions prior to this you are more than welcome to speak with a member of our anesthesia team.
Prior to Surgery
It is important to remember not to eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery or procedure with the exception of your medications with a small sip of water. Some medications should be stopped 5 to 10 days prior to surgery. This should be discussed with your Doctor. If you happen to notice any sudden symptoms just before your procedure such as an upper respiratory infection, breathing problems, fevers, or chest pain it is important to share this with your Doctor prior to coming for your procedure.
During your Surgery
A member of our anesthesia team will be present with you during your entire procedure to ensure your well-being and comfort while you are undergoing your procedure. When you arrive to the operating room, monitors such as EKG leads and a blood pressure cuff will be placed to measure your vital signs throughout the procedure. During your surgery we will administer medications and fluids as well as assist your breathing.
At the end of your surgery you may receive pain medications before you even wake up so that you will wake up more comfortable. More will be given as needed in the recovery room. Depending on the type of surgery you will be having, you may have the option of undergoing a special type of anesthesia called a “nerve block” or regional anesthesia to control pain effectively during your procedure as well as hours afterwards.
Prior to Surgery