Pre-Surgical Procedure:

Occasionally you will have an appointment prior to your pre-surgical appointment to address any potential concerns or aid with medical conditions and care prior to having surgery; if this is requested of the surgeon our office schedulers will help arrange this appointment with your primary care or other medical physician(s). This is often done to ensure that you have the best post operative outcome possible.
You will have an appointment at Western Orthopedics & Sports Medicine for your pre-surgical paperwork, physical, lab work and review of planned procedure(s). If additional image studies are needed to assist with your surgical procedure these may be performed at this appointment as well.
Oftentimes you will be using some type of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) after surgery such as a sling, brace or ambulatory aid. Our DME coordinator will fit you for the necessary items and teach you how to use them; as well as address any insurance questions that you may have in regards to this equipment. (PLEASE make sure that you bring this equipment with you the day of your surgery).
For your post operative pain management you will receive a pain medication prescription; please have this filled and at home for after surgery needs. Do NOT bring with you to the surgical facility.
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay for the initial 24 hours post surgery.
Please contact Western Orthopedic & Sports Medicine if you have questions, concerns, become ill or have any other health concerns.
You will have a Pre-operative phone call or visit with the surgery facility. During this call or appointment a nurse will review your health history, medications, allergies, insurance and contact information. Additionally specific instructions for what you need to do prior to surgery.
DO NOT eat, drink or use tobacco (including cigarettes) after midnight the night before surgery. Your doctor may give you more detailed instruction regarding this information.

Day of Your Surgery/ Procedure

Before Leaving Home:

Take appropriate medications as instructed the morning of your surgery with just a sip of water.
Leave valuables at home, including: cash, credit cards, jewelry, and other items of sentimental value.
All jewelry, including body piercing(s) must be removed before surgery.
You may brush your teeth and utilize mouthwash the day of surgery; but do not swallow any water.
Shower, wash and dry your hair before your surgery/procedure. It could be a day or longer before you can do these things again. (If your hair is wet or damp, it is difficult to keep you warm during your procedure).
Do NOT use hairspray, perfume, cologne or nail polish.
Do NOT wear make-up or mascara.
Bring a case to safely store eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids and dentures.
Bring your sling, brace, crutches or other DME aid to the surgery facility.
Bring eye drops, inhalers or C-pap if you routinely use them at home.
The Anesthesiologist will discuss your health history and anesthesia options and risks.

After Surgery and at Home:

After surgery you will be taken to recovery; where you will be monitored for any post surgical concerns. Once you have met the discharge criteria you will have detailed instructions provided for you and a family member or responsible adult.
Specific instructions will be sent with you based on your surgeon and your procedure. These will cover your restrictions, utilization of DME, dressing changes, pain medication and exercises.
You should have a follow up appointment made to return to Western Orthopedics and Sports Medicine (if this has not been done please contact the office to schedule).
You may have Physical Therapy after surgery; if you need an appointment please contact the office to schedule.
The anesthesia you had during surgery can make you groggy and cause impaired judgment. You should NOT drive, operate hazardous machinery, make any important decisions or sign legal papers for 24 hours.
Do NOT drink alcohol for 24 hours; OR while taking pain medications.
Take pain medication as prescribed; if none were prescribed utilize Tylenol or Ibuprofen as needed unless your doctor has instructed otherwise.
If you're having pain control issues please contact Western Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to speak to the medical staff to assist you.
Eat light foods for the first several hours then increase your diet as tolerated.
Drink plenty of fluids (avoid carbonated and caffeine beverages).
Take over the counter medication such as (Citrucel, Metamucil, or Colace) to prevent constipation.
The post surgical dressing may have some drainage of blood or fluid; if there is a significant amount place additional dressings over the one already in place and contact the office.
Contact the office if you have a fever of 101 or greater, increased swelling, redness, drainage, calf pain, chest pain or shortness of breath.