PRE-OPERATIVE PATIENT CARE

What to Expect Before Your Surgery:

Preoperative evaluation

You will undergo a thorough evaluation by your surgeon. Depending on the procedure proposed, some pre-operative investigatory tests may be recommended (e..g blood tests, scans, pH monitoring & manometry).

Your surgeon may also refer you onto a specialist medical physician for further assessment, as well as a dietitian, prior to surgery.

Medication, smoking & diet prior to surgery

You may need to make changes prior to surgery. Your surgeon may recommend adjusting your diet (such as the use of Optifast pre-operatively), to aid in a safer operation.

Generally speaking, smoking needs to be ceased at minimum 6 weeks prior to surgery (and much longer prior to any bariatric surgery procedure).

Medications - There are certain medications that need to be stopped prior to surgery. It is very important you inform your surgeon and anaesthetist what medications you are on, inlcuding any over the counter medications.

Your surgeon and anaesthetist will advise you of any medications that need to be stopped prior to surgery.

Patient Education

Your surgeon and care team, including our anaesthetist & senior dietitian, will provide detailed instructions about how to prepare for the surgery and what to expect in the days and weeks after

What should you bring to hospital on the day of surgery?

Please bring with you:

  • Medicare card

  • Private health insurance card

  • Identification

  • Toiletries

  • Loose pyjamas

  • Any essential equipments – such as CPAP machine, hearing aids

  • Non slip shoes/slippers

  • Mobile phone and charger

Please leave your valuables at home.

Do you need to fast before your procedure?

The short answer - Yes. This is important as it reduces any risk from an anaesthetic during the procedure.

Our surgeons and anaesthetist will advise on specific fasting periods/duration at the time of your procedure booking

What if I am unwell before my surgery?

Please let us know if you are unwell as soon as possible by contacting our rooms. This will ensure you can be re-scheduled to a later date and another person can receive their medical care sooner.  

Personalised, Compassionate Surgical Care

South East Upper GI Surgical Group warmly welcomes both private and public patients for new consultations and can see urgent referrals quickly, including new cancer diagnoses.