Preparing for Surgery & Procedure

Preparing for Surgery

Once you and Dr. Badman have decided that surgery is the next step, you'll need to learn what to expect from the surgery and the appropriate treatment plan for your recovery afterwards. Preparing mentally and physically for surgery is an important step towards a successful outcome. Understanding the general process and your role in it will help you recover more quickly and confidently and result in fewer concerns and problems afterwards.

Working with Your Doctor

Before surgery, Dr. Badman and staff will review your medical history to make sure you don't have any conditions that could interfere with the surgery or its outcome. Routine tests, such as blood tests and X-rays, are usually performed ahead of time to avoid scheduling delays the day of surgery. Occasionally, for minor outpatient procedures, blood work and/or an EKG will be obtained the same day prior to surgery. For larger procedures such as shoulder replacement, you may be scheduled with another medical doctor for consultation prior to surgery to make sure medically all things are good as possible before your surgery.

Discuss any medications you are taking with Dr. Badman and staff, and your family physician to see which ones you should stop taking before surgery.

If you are taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications or warfarin or any drugs that increase the risk of bleeding you will need to stop taking them one week before surgery to minimize bleeding during surgery.

If you smoke, you should stop or cut down to reduce your surgery risks and improve your recovery. This also negatively affects tendon healing and can increase your odds of surgical failure.

Eat a well-balanced diet, supplemented by a daily multivitamin with iron.

Report any infections to Dr. Badman including cavities and bladder infections. Surgery cannot be performed until all infections have cleared up.

Arrange for someone to help out with everyday tasks like cooking, shopping and laundry for a few weeks after your surgery.

Put items that you use often within easy reach before surgery so you won't have to reach and bend as often after surgery.

Remove all loose carpets and tape down electrical cords to avoid falls.

Access to a recliner after shoulder surgery can be beneficial as it is generally more comfortable sleeping semi-upright for 4-6 weeks following surgery.

Preparing for Procedure

If you are having Day Surgery, remember the following:

Have someone available to take you home; you will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours.

The combination of anesthesia, food, and car motion can quite often cause nausea or vomiting. After arriving home, wait until you are hungry before trying to eat. Begin with a light meal and try to avoid greasy food for the first 24 hours.

Take your pain medicine as directed. If you had a regional block, begin taking the pain medication prior to going to bed or when you arrive home (unless otherwise instructed). If you wait until the pain is severe you may have a period of time where the pain is unbearable prior to the pain medication taking effect.

Ice can be used as often as necessary. If your shoulder or arm is still numb place a towel between the ice and skin and alternate 1 hour on and 1 hour off until the sensation returns after which it may be used as frequently as necessary. The decision to use a cryocuff after surgery will be your decision as not all insurance plans cover this treatment.