What To Expect Before Surgery

Any operation can be scary if you are unprepared; that’s why our patients are provided every opportunity to learn beforehand about what to expect during and after their surgery.

Lifestyle Interventions to Prepare for Surgery

Before scheduling your surgery, we will discuss any lifestyle interventions that may be necessary to reduce your risk of complications as well as improve your surgical outcomes. Quitting smoking and other general health recommendations will be offered, and we will make every effort to ensure you receive the appropriate referrals to other medical professionals that will help you.

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Health History

Once you are scheduled for surgery, one of our nurse educators will call you to complete a detailed health history assessment and to schedule your education session, as well as an anesthesiologist appointment.

Education

We host group classes 1 - 3 weeks before your procedure to present the details about your surgery and outline your process for recovery. We will explain everything you need to know about your procedure, including pre-op instructions, post-operative care, and what to expect during your stay if you are scheduled to stay at one of our surgical centers. Our goal is to make sure there are no surprises when you arrive for your surgery. The class lasts about an hour and may include up to four other patients who will undergo the same procedure as you.

During your class, you will learn post-operative exercises and movements so you can practice before your surgery. You will also be given any medical supplies you will need for your post-op care, such as a cane or walker, cleaning solutions for your incision, and a booklet with care instructions. You will receive handouts to help you set appropriate expectations for your surgery, and a gift bag including your preoperative surgical scrub.

Prep with the Anesthesiologist

You will also be scheduled for an appointment with an anesthesiologist to discuss your medical history, complete a basic airway assessment, and plan the anesthesia to be used the day of surgery. You will typically sign the anesthesia consent at this visit.

Our nurse educator acts as a personal liaison to you and your support person before, during, and after surgery. We want you to understand the preparatory details and have all the supplies, appointments, and requirements completed for a successful outcome and comfortable surgical experience.

What To Expect After Surgery

Recovery Time

Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may require extended recovery time in one of our recovery suites in North Canton. Arthroscopic procedures can take a very short amount of time to perform and have a very short recovery time as well. After other procedures however, you may require additional physical therapy, along with a few weeks of rest to fully rehabilitate your body.

If you are going home on the same day as your surgery, you will be given the minimal amount of anesthesia necessary to keep you comfortable, yet allow you to easily recover from the anesthetic. Five hours after your surgery, you will be offered assistance by our medical staff to help you out of bed so you can walk.

Arriving Home

Your support person(s) will be instructed on what to expect after you arrive back home. We will schedule your physical therapy session for the day after your surgery before you leave. One of our staff members will follow up with you 3 days and 21 days after your procedure via phone to answer any questions and ensure your recovery is going well.

Rest and Therapy

Rest and therapeutic exercises, along with closely following any other postoperative instructions, are the best ingredients for full recuperation.

Request an Appointment

Contact us today to request an appointment or to ask questions about pre- or post-op expectations, procedures, or education.

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