Getting Ready for Your Surgery

Pre-Operative Evaluation

Make an appointment with your primary care physician for a pre-operative evaluation within 30 days of surgery. (You may also schedule your evaluation through Swedish's Pre-Admit Clinic.) The evaluation will include the following:

• A physical examination
• A health history
• EKG (if older than 40 years of age or if have a history of heart disease)
• Chest X-ray (if a history of lung disease)
• Review of current medication
• Blood work 

It is imperative that smoking and the consumption of nicotine are stopped prior to and for at least three months following surgery. If unable to stop "cold turkey," speak with your primary care physician about medications that aid in smoking cessation. Any aid used must not contain nicotine. Smoking - and specifically nicotine - will significantly increase the failure rate of bone fusion.

Preparing for Transportation

• Arrange for assistance, if needed, for pre-operative appointments and transportation.
• Plan for transportation to and from the hospital, using a car that you can get in and out of easily. You will not be permitted to drive yourself home, and you cannot take a cab.
• Make transportation arrangements for appointments after coming home from the hospital. You may have driving restrictions following your surgery.