Major surgery information

Patients are usually admitted on the morning of the operation. You should be fasting for at least 6 hours before the operation. This means nothing to eat or drink whatsoever, including water, for 6 hours before the operation. The only exceptions are some essential medications. Dr Itzkowic will advise you about these.

In the week before the operation it is sometimes necessary to have a blood test, x-rays, cardiograph or other tests.

Do not have any aspirin or dispirin in the 10 days before the operation,as this can lead to a bleeding tendency during the operation. Panadol is safe to take during this time.

An antibiotic is usually prescribed for the night before the operation, to help prevent infection.

On admission to hospital, you will be shown to your room, after completing booking formalities at the hospital office.

The anaesthetist will come to see you. He will explain the anaesthetic, examine you, and answer any questions you may have about the anaesthetic.

Please read the brochure " Anaesthesia and you " published by the Australian Society of Anaesthetists.

You will be given special below-knee stockings to wear before the operation. These are worn until after discharge from hospital. They help in preventing thrombosis. In addition most patients will be given an injection of an anticoagulant under the skin. This also helps to prevent thrombosis. This is usually repeated daily whilst in hospital.