Pre/post Op Instructions

Pre-operative Instructions

In pre-operative information, all the necessary information will be given to the patients regarding the surgical procedure, risks & complications of the surgery, and what to expect after surgery.

The general pre-operative instructions are as follows:

  • On the previous day of your surgery, avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight.
  • You should discontinue aspirin containing medications 5 days prior to your surgery.
  • Please stop taking anti-inflammatory medicines such as Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve and Motrin at least seven days prior to the surgery.
  • Please inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking and clarify as to what can and cannot be taken prior to the surgery.
  • Please make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the surgery as you will not be able to drive yourself home.
  • Please inform your doctor if you are having hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease so that special instructions will be given.

Post –operative Instructions

Apart from the specific instructions given to you depending on the type of surgery you have undergone, the basic general instructions that you should follow after your surgery are as follows:

  • Take pain relieving and other medications as advised.
  • Keep the dressing clean and dry to promote wound healing.
  • Use ice packs to control swelling. However make sure that the ice bag does not leak into the dressing. Ice packs can be used liberally for the first 48 hours and even later, if required.
  • Do not drink alcohol, drive a vehicle, operate any machinery or sign a legal document for the first 24 hours after the surgery as the effect of the sedative and/ or the aesthesia administered during the surgery may last for the first 24 hours of the surgery.
  • Try to begin physical therapy a day or two after the surgery. Exercises in the first week are usually aimed at regaining joint motion. Strengthening exercises are initiated later. Regular exercises are critical for a successful outcome.
  • Schedule your follow up appointment with your doctor as advised.
  • Please consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
    • Increased drainage from the incision
    • Increased redness around the operated area
    • Increased swelling that does not decrease with ice and elevation
    • Foul odor
    • Fever greater than 101°F
    • Coldness, numbness or blanched white or bluish color of the fingers or toes
    • Sudden calf pain or shortness of breath
    • Chest pain
The Royal College of Surgeons of EnglandBritish Orthopaedic AssociationBritish Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle
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