There are always certain precautions to take and due diligence to perform prior to any surgery, and hernia surgery is no exception. If you are considering a surgical intervention for a hernia, pay attention to 5 things to do before hernia surgery.
Discuss All Medications And Conditions When Meeting With Agave Surgical Specialists
It is important your physician and surgeon be aware of all your medications. Make Agave Surgical Specialists aware of any blood thinners or aspirin you take on a regular basis, as you may need an alternate medication before your hernia surgery.
Be sure to alert Agave Surgical Specialists about heart medications or any other conditions you currently have like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Have All Medical History Prepared
It is important to have all your medical history ready to discuss. Gather any scans or tests and bring them to the pre-surgery appointment if appropriate. Discuss your hernia symptoms, how long you have had them, and any changes in severity lately. You will also want to disclose if you have had a hernia previously, though your doctor may already acknowledge that.
Prepare A List Of Questions
Be prepared when you meet the surgeon and team by writing down a list of questions. Some suggestions include the following:
- Are there any alternatives to surgery?
- How will I be sedated?
- Explain the type of hernia surgery I will be having?
- What will my recovery be like?
- Are there common complications after surgery?
Follow All Guidelines Set Up By Agave Surgical Specialists Before Hernia Surgery
You will receive a list of guidelines to follow before surgery, and it is important you adhere to them precisely.
Besides stopping all aspirin or aspirin products, you should not take diet medications, Vitamin E or St. John’s Wort. You will most likely be asked to stop smoking, even entirely, since smoking increases the chance of recurrence.
Follow all the restrictions for the day of surgery regarding eating, drinking, medications, and showering. Showering the night before or in the morning will help to reduce the chance of infection.
Prepare For Care After Surgery
Expect to have some pain and discomfort for several days after hernia surgery. You will need your partner or a trusted friend to help out with meals and personal care. You can prepare some meals before the procedure and keep them in the freezer until you are ready to eat them.
Preparing ahead for your hernia surgery will make it as comfortable and stress free as possible.
Contact Agave Surgical Specialists if you have any additional questions before hernia surgery.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233.
