Simple steps beforehand can aid the healing process after surgery

By Hsieng Su, M.D.

Getting ready for ready surgery can raise anxiety and lead to questions about the healing process. However, there are several easy ways to ensure a good surgical outcome and to assist the body’s healing process.

Nutrition before surgery is very important. A diet rich in nutrients, especially protein, helps prepares your body for quick healing. Do not restrict calories, or diet, prior to your surgery unless your surgeon specifically recommends you do so.

The healthier your body is going in, the faster it can heal. If you only have a month and are out of shape this may not be feasible, but exercise before surgery will help ensure that your body is as fit as possible before your procedure. If you already exercise, please keep it up.

There are many medications and supplements to avoid before surgery. You will likely be asked to stop aspirin-containing products and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen and Aleve, two to three weeks before your surgery to prevent unnecessary bleeding.

If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin), you will usually be advised to discontinue this within a certain timeframe before surgery. You may be switched to injectable medications instead and your blood counts will likely be closely monitored.

Some herbs could potentially interfere with anesthesia, and these, too, should be stopped at least a week before surgery.

Please consider stopping smoking. Not only will you be healthier in the long run, but your surgical outcome will be improved. Smokers are at significantly higher risk for requiring the ventilator for longer periods of time.

See your surgeon several weeks before your scheduled procedure to learn more about your procedure and your recovery. Make a list of questions that you have about your surgery, and bring a love one or trusted friend to help listen to the answers. If you are going to be discharged from surgery the same day, make sure you have arrangements made ahead of time for a ride home.

Depending on your age and the type of surgery you’ll be having, you may require a “pre-op” physical to rule out any underlying conditions or possible complications. This is usually done by your primary care provider.  If you don’t already have one, you may be asked to see an internist or family practitioner for this.

As your surgery day approaches, call your surgeon’s office if you feel ill, have a fever or have a cough or sinus issues.  Your surgery may have to be postponed, as you will have the best outcome if you are as healthy as possible when it begins.

Your surgeon will likely give you other specific instructions to follow, based upon your age, medical condition and the type of surgery you are having. Following these instructions to the letter can have a positive impact on your recovery after surgery.

Hsieng Su, MD, MBA, MPH, MHCM, is chief medical officer at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center.