Preparing For Surgery

Which medical tests will you need?

At your initial consultation, Dr Walter will discuss what tests are necessary prior to your surgery. You will need to have a chest x-ray, ECG and blood tests. Nose and groin swabs (which are usually done at the same time as your blood tests) are taken to test for MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). It is very important that patients are clear of MRSA prior to admission to hospital as this minimises infection risk. You will be given referrals for the various required tests. These can be done at the Mater Hospital if it suits you, or you can have them done elsewhere. These need to be done before your attend the pre-admission clinic.

Getting ready for surgery

If you have certain medical conditions, a complex medical history or are elderly, you may be referred to a specialist physician who will do a thorough medical check. The physician will provide a report to Dr Walter and any concerns regarding your surgery are discussed. The physician will talk to the anaesthetist and Dr Walter if there are particular concerns which arise.

The physician is in the best position to ensure all your health issues and medications are managed very carefully before, during and after surgery. The physician will check on you when you are in hospital.

We will probably tell you to

• To stop any blood thinning agents you are on, such as Plavix, Aspirin and Cartia. Warfarin should also be ceased 5 days prior to surgery, but will give you strict instructions regarding this, as it may be necessary to substitute with other medications.
• To stop taking non-steriodal anti-inflammatories such as Voltaren and Neurofen 10 days prior to surgery. Celebrex and Mobic are usually to be stopped 5 days prior to surgery
• This is general information only. It is very important that you get specific instructions from us about your medications.

Attending the pre-admission Clinic

Once you have a surgery date booked, you should contact the Mater Hospital on (02) 9900 7494 to make an appointment to attend the Pre-Admission Clinic. During your pre-admission interview the hospital nursing staff will check your pre-operative pathology, E.C.G and chest x-rays. They will explain the hospital process, discuss your options on discharge and answer any questions that you may have regarding your stay at the Mater Hospital. They are also able to help you to arrange equipment you may need at home once you have been discharged. If you live out of Sydney or Australia, your pre-admission interview and checks can be done by phone.