Preparing for Surgery
Preparing for surgery is an important step in ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Here’s what you need to know:
Before Your Surgery
Pre-Surgical Assessment: A pre-operative consultation may be required to review your medical history, conduct necessary investigations, and ensure you are ready for surgery.
Medication Adjustments: Some medications or supplements may need to be paused or adjusted prior to surgery. Dr Conrad’s team will provide clear guidance.
Fasting Instructions: Follow the guidelines provided by your hospital or surgical team. Generally, you may have light food up to six hours before surgery and clear fluids, such as water, up to two hours prior, unless otherwise directed.
Bowel Preparation: Bowel preparation is rarely required and is typically reserved for complex cases of endometriosis involving bowel disease in collaboration with colorectal surgeons. If bowel preparation is needed, specific instructions will be provided well in advance.
Fee Transparency: You will receive a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with your procedure, which are payable prior to surgery. There may be additional fees from other specialists involved in your care, such as the anaesthetist or pathologist, which are billed separately. Our team is happy to assist if you have any questions about these arrangements.
Hospital Admission Forms: You will be advised to complete your hospital admission forms online prior to surgery. Our team will provide you with the necessary information and guidance to ensure this process is completed smoothly.
Transportation: If you are undergoing day surgery, please ensure you have someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
What to Bring:
Comfortable clothing and toiletries for your hospital stay.
Any required hospital paperwork.
A list of your current medications and supplements.
On the Day of Surgery
Arrival Time: Your hospital will advise you of your arrival time and location. Plan to arrive early to allow for check-in and preparation.
Pre-Operative Preparation: Hospital staff will assist with preparation, including changing into a gown and placing an IV line if needed.
Final Review: Dr Conrad will meet with you before the procedure to answer any last-minute questions and confirm the surgical plan.
After Your Surgery
Recovery Room: After your procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery room as the anaesthetic wears off. With your consent, Dr Conrad will also call your nominated next of kin to inform them that the surgery is complete and share any relevant updates.
Post-Operative Instructions: Detailed recovery instructions will be provided, including guidance on pain management, wound care, and activity levels.
Pain Management: Pain relief will be tailored to your needs, with medications provided during and after surgery to ensure your recovery is as comfortable as possible.
Recovery Time: Recovery periods vary depending on the procedure. For example, patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery may resume light activities within a week, while more complex procedures may require additional recovery time.
Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment with Dr Conrad will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. Additionally, Dr Conrad will provide a detailed report to your referring doctor to ensure seamless communication and continuity of care.
Your Hospital Stay
Depending on the type of surgery, your hospital stay may range from same-day discharge to a few nights for more complex procedures. Dr Conrad operates at Kareena Private Hospital, The Sutherland Hospital, St George Private Hospital, and Hurstville Private Hospital, ensuring access to state-of-the-art facilities for your care.
Support & Questions
Our team is here to support you throughout the surgical process. If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are committed to making your surgical experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.