The Day of Surgery

You should plan to arrive at the surgical facility at least 1 hour prior to your scheduled procedure. Certain special procedures require earlier check-in. These instructions should come from the facility well in advance. If at all possible, wear loose fitting clothes that are easy to put on and will fit over bulky bandages or surgical dressings. Leave your valuables at home.

What will happen before my surgery?

In most instances, you will meet the anesthesiologist who will care for you on the day of your surgery in the pre-operative holding area. Your anesthesiologist will then review your medical and anesthesia history and the results of any laboratory tests and answer other questions you may have.

Nurses will record your vital signs and record your general health history. Your anesthesiologist and surgeon will visit with you, completing any evaluations and laboratory tests and answering any questions that you may have. Intravenous fluids will be started and preoperative medications given, if needed. Once in the operating room, monitoring devices will be attached such as a blood pressure cuff, EKG and other monitoring devices. At this point, you will be ready for anesthesia.

What will happen during surgery?

Your anesthesiologist is personally responsible for your comfort and well-being and will be with you at all times. During your surgery, your anesthesiologist will direct your anesthesia as well as monitor and manage your vital signs. The anesthesiologist in charge of you care is also responsible for managing any medical problems that might arise during your surgery as well as any chronic medical conditions you may have, such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart problems.