Please call your physician’s office about any medications they have prescribed that you currently take; ask them if there is a need for you to discontinue any medication prior to surgery. You will be provided a list of medication and herbs that must be stopped one week (7 days) prior to your surgery. Regular or extra-strength Tylenol is okay to take during this time.
Not all patients require physical therapy. Physical therapy will depend on how you are doing post-operatively and is usually not required until after your first post-operative visit to check your incision. If we prescribe physical therapy for you, please take the prescription we gave you to your physical therapy appointment. It is your responsibility to verify the facility and your benefits with your insurance company.
Your Center for Spine & Orthopedics healthcare providers will provide activity restrictions for you to give your employer, school, referring physician, case managers or insurance company. Any paperwork requested by your employer or insurance can be sent to the Center for Spine & Orthopedics medical records department.
- Notify your healthcare provider (surgeon, nurse, anesthesiologist, NP, PA, etc) if there is any change in your physical condition before surgery, such as fever or infection.
- You may have not eat or drink anything midnight (or 8 hours prior to your surgery), unless instructed otherwise by your anesthesiologist. This includes water, hard candy, gum, breath mints, etc.
- If you use inhalers, please take them to the hospital. Inform the hospital of all medications you are taking, including the dosage and how often you take the medication. If you would like, you can bring the medications you to the hospital.
- Check in at the hospital two hours prior to the surgery, unless you have been instructed otherwise.
- Bathe or shower the morning of your surgery. Wear loose, casual clothing that is appropriate for your surgery. A button-up shirt, rather than a pullover, is recommended for patients having cervical fusions.
- Leave all jewelry and valuables at home. If you wear glasses, contact lenses, and/or hearing aids, bring a case to store them.
- If you will be staying in the hospital following your surgery, please take items appropriate for your stay (i.e. slippers, robe, toiletries).
- Patients having outpatient/same-day surgery must make arrangements for someone to drive them home from the hospital. The hospital will not allow you to take a taxi unless there is a responsible adult with you.