Preparing for Surgery

Why is preparation important?

Good preparation before surgery can make a significant difference in your recovery. A well-prepared patient has fewer complications, recovers faster and feels more confident facing the intervention.

Pre-operative tests

Before surgery, several tests will be performed to ensure you are in optimal conditions:

• Blood tests: To evaluate your general condition, kidney and liver function, coagulation.
• Electrocardiogram: To check cardiac function.
• Chest X-ray: To evaluate the lungs.
• Anesthesia consultation: The anesthesiologist will review your history and plan the best anesthesia for your case.
• Other tests: Depending on your case, CT scans, colonoscopy, etc. may be needed.

Nutrition

Your nutritional status is key to good recovery:

• Increase proteins: Eggs, meat, fish, legumes. They help healing and recovery.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids.
• Nutritional supplements: If you are malnourished or have lost weight, the doctor may prescribe supplements.
• Avoid alcohol: At least 2 weeks before surgery.
• If you are diabetic: Control blood sugar is especially important.

Physical activity

Staying active before surgery improves your physical condition and speeds recovery:

• Walk daily: 20-30 minutes at a moderate pace.
• Breathing exercises: Deep breathing and pursed lip breathing. It helps prevent respiratory complications.
• Maintain activity: If you can, continue with your usual activities.
• Don't overexert: The goal is to stay active, not exhaust yourself.

Medications

It is important to review your medications with the medical team:

• Inform about all medications: Including supplements and natural products.
• Anticoagulants: May need to be stopped days before. The doctor will indicate when and how.
• Diabetes medications: May need adjustments before surgery.
• Blood pressure medications: Usually taken normally until the day of surgery.
• Aspirin: Consult if you should stop it.

Important: Do not stop any medication on your own without consulting the medical team.

If you smoke

Smoking significantly increases surgical risks. If you smoke:

• Ideally stop at least 4-8 weeks before surgery
• If you can't, at least reduce consumption as much as possible
• Even stopping 24-48 hours before helps
• Ask about aids to quit smoking

Emotional preparation

It is completely normal to feel fear, anxiety or worry before surgery. Some tips:

• Get informed: Understanding what will happen reduces anxiety. Ask all your questions.
• Talk about your fears: With family, friends or the medical team. You are not alone.
• Relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation or whatever helps you.
• Trust the team: You are in the hands of experienced professionals.
• Prepare practical matters: Organize your home, work, etc. for recovery period.

What to bring to the hospital

• All your medical reports and previous tests
• List of your medications with doses
• Comfortable pajamas and robe
• Slippers and comfortable non-slip footwear
• Basic toiletries
• Phone and charger
• A book or entertainment for the wait
• ID documents and insurance card

Leave at home: Jewelry, valuables, large amounts of money.

The day before surgery

• Follow fasting instructions: Usually nothing to eat or drink from midnight.
• Shower: With neutral soap, pay attention to the surgical area.
• Do not shave: If shaving is needed, it will be done in the hospital.
• Rest: Try to sleep well (although it's normal not to sleep much).
• Prepare your things: Have everything ready for the next day.

The day of surgery

• Arrive at the indicated time
• Fasting (do not eat or drink anything)
• No makeup, nail polish or jewelry
• You can brush your teeth but don't swallow water
• Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to take off
• You will be accompanied to pre-op where they will prepare you