What to do on the Day of Surgery

If you’re scheduled for spinal surgery, your preparation is crucial to the success of the procedure and recovery. As the top neurosurgeons in Naples, FL, we understand the importance of a well-planned surgical day and will guide you through the necessary steps. From pre-operative instructions to what to bring on the day of surgery, each detail plays a role in ensuring a smooth process.

Specific instructions will be given regarding when to stop eating and drinking the night before surgery. Generally, it is recommended by the American Society of Anesthesiology guidelines that clear liquids may be ingested for up to 2 hours and a light solid meal may be ingested up to 6 hours before surgery requiring general anesthesia (See ASA Task Force).
The aim is to ensure the safety of anesthesia on the day of the surgery, while also making the best effort to ensure the body is nutritionally replete before undergoing surgery.

Photo ID and insurance/Medicare card for check in.
List of your allergies, health conditions, special dietary requirements, and any prescription or over-the-counter medications you’re taking.
Names and phone numbers of your physicians.
Fresh clothes to wear for discharge.
If you are bringing a cell phone, don't forget your charger.
Glasses and/or hearing aids (please bring the containers to hold them in so they don't get misplaced).
If you use a CPAP or BiPAP, bring your home machine.

Sleep is critical to health and wellness, and the need for quality sleep before and after surgery are critical.
Sleep loss and fragmentation have been shown to be associated with increased levels of the stress hormone, cortisol (See Kumari et al.)
By optimizing and improving sleep before surgery and the night before surgery, one can ensure the stress of surgery is able to be easily dealt with by the body.
One general tip to ensure a good night's rest before surgery is to try to be physically active more than usual the day before doing mild exercise like walking, biking, or swimming.

The day of spinal surgery can be overwhelming, but knowing you're in the hands of the best spine doctors in Naples, FL, will give you peace of mind. We will guide you through the process, ensuring everything from check-in to surgery is handled smoothly.

Apex Brain & Spine Neurosurgical Specialists

What to do on the Day of Surgery

Apex Brain & Spine
Neurosurgical Specialists