Pre-Operative Preparation

The correct preparation for your operation is as important as the surgery itself.

Prior to your procedure, it is usual to conduct some pre-operative tests. In general, your surgeon and anaesthetist will want to determine that you are fit enough to undergo the operation. The nature and type of tests will be determined by your age, general health, and the complexity of the surgery.
Commonly performed tests include:

• Blood tests
  A blood sample taken to provide ensure that you are not anaemic, and to check that the kidneys are functioning normally. In some of the more major operations, part of the blood sample will be used to determine your blood type and to match any blood, should a blood transfusion be necessary.
  
  
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  This is a commonly performed test to ensure normal rhythm and function of the heart. Several electrodes are placed on the skin of the chest wall, arms and legs. The electrical activity of the heart is recorded and will be evaluated by your anaesthetist and surgeon
  
  
• Chest X-Ray
  Although not routinely performed, this is a common pre-operative test, particularly if you are a smoker or have a history of chest or heart problems. If you have had this test recently you should inform your doctor

Your surgeon will have explained the operation in detail to you before scheduling the procedure. It is necessary for you to sign a consent form and your surgeon will explain the operation in detail once again, and also explain some of the side effects and complications. It is a good idea to make a list of any questions you may have prior to your surgery, so that these may be answered at the time of consent taking.

The common urological operations listed in this website are usually performed under general or spinal anaesthesia. You will therefore be required to fast (nil by mouth) for at least 6 hours before your operation is scheduled.

• Medications
  You should bring a list of all medications you are taking, including those available over the counter, as well as any known allergies, and give this to your surgeon. If you are taking low dose Aspirin (75mg or 150mg), this must be stopped 10 days prior to surgery in order to reduce the risk of bleeding. Certain medications, particularly Warfarin and steroids, need special pre-operative attention, and it is vital that you inform your surgeon if you are taking these.
  
  
• Bowel Preparation
  Many major operations require the bowel to be cleansed beforehand. There are many different ways of preparing the bowel. Most will involve some form of fluid-only diet just prior to the operation. A laxative, an enema, or both, are usually administered within the preceeding 24 hours. 
  
  
• Smoking
  If you smoke, you must stop immediately as smoking increases risk of breathing and heart complications during surgery. Deep breathing exercises are recommended before and after your operation.