Neurosurgery is a specialty focusing on procedures of the spine and brain. From complex brain tumors to spinal fusion, invasive neurosurgery comes with unique risks, worries and questions. From the signs and symptoms of a brain tumor to The overwhelm of a surgical procedure is compounded by the scope of brain or spine surgery, and many patients are eager for answers to the most common question—What can I do to prepare for neurosurgery?
It’s important to examine the practical, day-to-day solutions that will alleviate stress during your recovery and plan for the appropriate assistance when you’re discharged from the hospital. Once surgery is complete, recovery should be the primary focus, and understanding the limitations and timeline for healing will support health and wellbeing.
“The success of any surgery begins with preparation,” says Dr. Wilson Asfora, MD, a prominent neurosurgeon who has performed lifesaving and life-improving procedures for his patients suffering from debilitating neurological injury and disease. “A patient who prepares—both body and mind—for the procedure and recovery, has a leg up in the healing journey. We must do our best to educate our patients and prepare them for the best possible recovery.”
Things to Consider Prior to Invasive Neurosurgery
From the moment surgery is recommended until you arrive on the day of the procedure, you have the opportunity to best prepare yourself for a positive outcome. Your doctor will advise you on the ideal steps to prepare, and that advice may include specific details and broader lifestyle changes that promote a smooth, successful operation and optimal recovery.
There are standard instructions and steps you can take to prepare yourself prior to surgery.
Work-Recovery Balance
Once you’ve scheduled your surgery, you’ll want to ensure you’ve made arrangements with your employer and any other activities and obligations to which you’ve committed time and energy. Planning for time off ahead of surgery creates peace of mind and allows you to focus on your recovery plan. Additionally, you may require transportation, help with meals or other assistance during your convalescence, and pre-planning will alleviate stress and ensure your needs are met while you’re regaining your strength and mobility.
Preop Tests and Consultations
In the days leading up to surgery, your doctor will order blood tests and other diagnostic exams which may include imaging. You’ll have consultations with your anesthesiologist, surgeon and other personnel who will be present for your surgery, and the doctor will double check your medical history and current medications. This is the prime opportunity to ask your questions and assuage your concerns prior to the procedure. In preparation for your consult, recording your thoughts, concerns, and questions will allow you to clearly communicate with the doctor.
Quality Time
Anxiety and worry are natural reactions to invasive medical procedures and taking steps to manage the overwhelm will eliminate stressors that can affect your health. Take time with family and friends, diverting yourself from the looming worries associated with surgery. Spending time with others and engaging in activities outside of your diagnosis and impending procedure can alleviate stress and renew energy levels.
Preparing for Your Surgical Procedure
Observe Eating & Drinking Restrictions
Understanding why you can’t eat or drink before surgery can help you avoid some serious complications. Eating too soon before surgery can cause nausea and vomiting during and after the operation. Food in the stomach reacts to the administration of general anesthesia. Those reactions include taking food particles into your airway after vomiting. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for the day(s) prior to surgery.
Pay Attention to Personal Hygiene
Beginning three days prior to surgery, bathe with a liquid antibacterial soap. Keep your fingernails short and use a nail brush to remove dirt and bacteria. Shower before coming to the hospital. Shampoo your hair. Do not apply body lotions, makeup, or perfume. Brush your teeth, but do not swallow the water.
Follow Instructions Regarding Medications
You may currently be on medications that could interfere with your surgery. You will be asked to make a list before the operation, and your doctor may ask you to take additional medications in preparation. In most cases, Aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs should not be taken for two weeks prior to your surgery.
The Day of Surgery
The day has come for your procedure and preparing what you’ll take ahead of time can relieve the day-of worries and ensure you’re prepared. Your doctor will provide explicit instructions, and it’s important to remember the following:
- Insurance and personal identification forms—Medicare ID card, driver’s license, etc.
- A health proxy or power of attorney. Designate a trusted person to make medical decisions if you are unable to. That person needs to be your point of contact or spokesperson at the hospital. You can download a proxy form from the web, or the hospital can provide the form for you.
- Sanitary/personal items—The hospital will provide your surgery gown. For your stay in the hospital and the day you go home, you’ll need your own personal items. Arrange for someone to bring you a comfortable robe and slippers and your toiletry items after you leave the recovery room.
- Storage cases and solutions for dentures, contact lenses, etc.
- Medications prescribed for you and approved by your surgical team.
- Your CPAP device, if you need one.
Along with the list of must-dos, you’ll receive restrictions including the items to leave behind when you come for surgery. These often include prosthetics, jewelry, and unnecessary scents or hygiene products.
Understanding the preparations that will bring peace of mind and ease of recovery is vital to successful healing. Focus on stress-reducing exercises such as breathwork and mental focus to improve your healing and beat the stress that comes with invasive surgery. Your preparation paves the way for a less stressful experience and ensures you are ready to embrace healing and the new opportunity it brings as your health improves.
