Your journey: Pre Surgery
You will be required to complete an online hospital admission form once the date for your surgery has been confirmed. You will be informed when you need to fast from, and when and where to present for your operation the week prior to your surgery. In general, you should be fasting for at least 6 hours prior to your operation – this includes no fluids (except small sips of water for oral medication) and any candy or chewing gum. You will need to sign the consent form for your surgery on the day of your admission to hospital.
Most regular medications should be continued to be taken leading up to and on the day of your operation. Exceptions include insulin and gliflozin drugs (SGLT2 inhibitors) for diabetes mellitus, any blood-thinning agents, and anti-rheumatic biological (or immune-modulating) drugs for which specific instructions will be advised.
If you have a complex medial background, you may be referred to a physician pre operatively to optimise your medical status and minimise any risks prior to your surgery. A physician may also be engaged to help with your recovery after your operation if necessary.
It is recommended to remove any jewelry before coming to the hospital and to bring loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on over bulky dressings or a plaster backslab. Please take particular care to avoid any wounds near the surgical site or on the limb to be operated on to reduce the risk of infection. For patients undergoing foot or ankle surgery, please ensure to keep your foot and toenails clean, including removing any nail polish.
approach to patient care
guidance throughout your recovery
Photos by David Mai. Copyright © 2017-2024 OrthoCare Melbourne.