Whether surgery is a planned event or a lightning bolt from the blue, preparation is the best way to alleviate fear.
Information on the Surgery
Ask the doctor questions about the planned surgery:
- What part of the body is involved
- Will the surgery be a complete cure
- How big/long will the incision be
- Is this major or minor surgery
- How long will the hospital stay be
- Will the surgery bring dietary restrictions
- How long will recovery take
Tests
Pre-surgery test are required in most cases. These are the most common ones ordered:
- Blood - these check a number of details including the number of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin levels, electrolyte balance, blood clotting ability and liver function
- Urine Analysis - this will reveal a bladder or kidney infection
- X-Rays - a chest x-ray may be required
- ECG(Electrocardiogram) - this test records heart rhythm and will reveal any abnormalities or irregularities
- Scans - various types of scans may be required such as ultrasound, CAT, PET and MRI. Each examine the internal structure of the body in a different way
Arriving at Hospital
No food or liquids are allowed for 4 to 6 hours before surgery. This is important as the anesthetic overrides several reflex functions including the gag reflex that prevents food and stomach acid from rising up in the throat.
The patient is normally requested to report to the admissions department several hours before the surgery is to take place. The paper work can take some time and evidence of health insurance will be required. An ID bracelet will be attached to the patient with personal details included.
Pre-surgery
The patient will be asked to change into a hospital gown and disposable underwear. All jewelry must be removed along with dentures and contact lenses. Blood pressure, heart rate and temperature will be measured.
Types of Anesthesia
Once in the operating room, some form of anesthesia will be administered to the patient, normally by injection or through an intravenous line.
- General anesthetic - this numbs the entire body and the patient is unconscious
- Regional anesthetic - this includes epidural and spinal blocks. An entire region of the body such as an arm or leg are numbed
- Sedation - sedatives are given intravenously with a local anesthetic numbing the site of surgery. The patient will not remember much of the surgery
- Local anaesthetic - this is administered by injection and numbs a small area
Pain Management
Many people fear the pain that accompanies surgery. Open communication between medical staff and patient can lead to effective pain management. Here are some of the options:
- Opioids - including morphine, Demerol and codeine. These drugs block pain signals in the brain and produce a sedative effect
- Non-opioids - including aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. These drugs check pain at its source and are slow-working. They are best used for treating mild pain
- Patient Controlled Anesthesia - this consists of a pump attached to an intravenous line. The patient presses a button to administer a dose of pain relief as needed. The pump will limit the dosage amount over a 24 hour period
- Injecting the Incision - a local anesthetic can be injected into or near the incision. This is an effective treatment for severe pain
Undergoing surgery is not a pleasant experience but can be less intimidating when the process is understood. Researching the options and procedures can lead to peace of mind and understanding.
Recommended reading: The Surgery Handbook by Paul Ruggieri, M.D., Addicus Books 2000
