Pre-Surgery

On this page:
Understanding Your Options
Questions to Ask
Requesting a Second Opinion
Preparing for Surgery
What to Expect for the Days Leading to Your Surgery
Hospital Stay
References

Understanding Your Options

Undergoing surgery can stir up a whirlwind of emotions. To ease your worries, have open conversations with your doctor. Ask for a detailed breakdown of the procedure, what to expect, and potential side effects. Understanding the process can alleviate some of the stress.

As you prepare, focus on self-care by engaging in regular exercise, eating nourishing foods, maintaining good sleep habits, and incorporating calming practices like meditation or yoga. Educate yourself on the potential physical and emotional impacts of the surgery to empower you in making informed decisions.

Key Steps:

Have open conversations with your doctor
Ask for a detailed breakdown of the procedure
Discuss expectations and potential side effects
Prioritise self-care leading up to surgery
Educate yourself on potential physical and emotional effects

Remember, knowledge is power. Understanding what your mind and body might experience allows you to make informed choices for your health and well-being. Allow yourself the space to process your emotions at your own pace.

Questions to Ask

Questions to Ask Your Medical Team:

Why is this surgery recommended for my condition? Understanding the rationale behind the surgery helps you grasp its necessity and expected outcomes.
What are the alternatives? Explore other treatment options that may be available to make an informed decision.
What are the potential risks and complications? Knowing the risks helps you weigh them against the benefits and prepare for potential issues.
What is the expected recovery time, and what can I expect during the recovery process? Understand the ongoing care and support required after surgery.
How will the surgery affect my overall health and quality of life? Gain insight into how the procedure might impact your daily life and long-term well-being.
What type of follow-up care will I need? Understand the post-surgery care requirements to ensure a smooth recovery.

Questions to Ask About Specific Procedures:

For a hysterectomy:
- What type of hysterectomy is recommended, and why?
- Will the cervix be removed during the hysterectomy, and if so, why?
- How will it impact my hormonal balance and menstrual cycle?
- What changes should I expect in sexual function and intimacy?
- Will I experience menopausal symptoms, and how can they be managed?
For a bilateral oophorectomy:
- Why is the procedure necessary, and what are the benefits and risks specific to this procedure?
- What are the immediate and long-term effects of removing both ovaries in terms of hormonal balance and overall health?
- How will a bilateral oophorectomy impact my bone health, and what steps can I take to prevent osteoporosis?
- What are the implications for fertility, and are there options for preserving fertility before the surgery?
- Will hormone replacement therapy (HRT) be recommended? If not, why, and what else can I take to alleviate my symptoms and protect my health?
Surgery and Recovery:
- What type of anaesthesia will be used, and what are the associated risks?
- How long will the surgery be, and what is the expected hospital stay?
- What kind of post-operative pain management will be provided?
- What restrictions or limitations will I have during the recovery period, and for how long?
- What signs of complications should I watch for after the surgery, and when should I seek medical attention?
Lifestyle and Emotional Well-being:
- Are there any specific lifestyle changes or activities I should consider before or after the surgery?
- How can I manage the emotional and psychological aspects of these procedures, including potential feelings of loss or changes in body image?
- Are there support groups or counselling services available to help me cope with the emotional aspects of the surgery?

Personal Reflections:

What are my main concerns or fears about the surgery? Identifying these can help you address them with your medical team.
What are my goals for recovery and overall health post-surgery? Having clear goals can guide your preparation and recovery.

Remember, your healthcare provider is your best resource for detailed and personalised information regarding your specific situation. Don’t hesitate to ask any additional questions that come to mind, ensuring that you are fully informed and comfortable with the decisions made about your health.

Requesting a Second Opinion

Seeking a second opinion can provide additional perspectives on your diagnosis and treatment options. This can be especially important if you have concerns about the recommended surgery or want to explore all possible alternatives. When requesting a second opinion:

Choose a Specialist: Select a doctor with expertise in your specific condition.
Provide Medical Records: Share your current diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and any relevant medical history.
Prepare Questions: Ask about the necessity of the surgery, potential outcomes, and alternative treatments.

However, not everyone may have the opportunity to get a second opinion due to factors like waiting lists, time constraints, or public sector limitations. If this is the case, it’s crucial to feel comfortable and respected by your current doctor. Don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as necessary and voice any concerns you may have. Your healthcare team should support and address your needs to ensure you feel informed and confident in your decisions.

Preparing for Surgery

To ensure a smooth surgical experience and recovery, it’s essential to thoroughly prepare in various aspects of your life.

Medical Preparation

Pre-Operative Tests: Schedule and complete all required tests (e.g., blood work, ECG, imaging studies).
Pre-Anesthesia Consultation: Attend this to discuss any concerns and understand what to expect.
Medical History: Provide a complete history, including all medications and supplements.
Healthcare Discussions: Address any concerns or questions with your healthcare team to clarify your understanding.

Medication Management

Medication Review: Discuss all current medications with your doctor.
Medication Adjustments: Understand which medications to stop before surgery and when, and follow instructions for taking any medications on the day of surgery.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Quit Smoking: Ideally, quit at least 6 weeks before surgery.
Alcohol Consumption: Limit intake to support recovery.
Healthy Diet: Maintain a diet rich in nutrients to aid healing.
Exercise: Engage in approved exercises to strengthen your body pre-surgery.

Home Preparation

Transportation: Arrange for reliable transport to and from the hospital.
Recovery Area: Set up a comfortable space with easy access to necessities.
Supplies: Stock up on essentials like meals, snacks, loose clothing, sanitary pads, and medications.
Support: Arrange for help with household chores, childcare, or any other tasks you may need assistance with.

Emotional and Mental Preparation

Relaxation Techniques: Learn methods to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness.
Support Networks: Engage with support groups or speak with a counsellor to navigate your feelings and gain additional support.

Conversation with Your Loved Ones

Talking to your loved ones about your surgery can provide emotional support and practical help. Address:

Your Needs: Explain how they can support you during your recovery.
Emotional Concerns: Share your feelings and any worries about the surgery.
Care Plans: Discuss any specific ways they can assist you with daily activities or transportation.

Conversation with Your Employer

Informing your employer about your upcoming surgery is crucial for managing work responsibilities and planning your time off. Here are key aspects to discuss:

Planned Leave: Provide an estimate of how long you’ll be away from work. This helps your employer manage your workload and make necessary adjustments.
Medical Documentation: Share any required paperwork for medical leave or disability benefits. This may include a doctor’s note or other official documents.
Work Arrangements: Discuss options for managing your workload or delegating tasks during your absence. Explore possibilities for temporary coverage or adjusting deadlines.

Work and Financial Planning

In addition to notifying your employer, consider the following for effective work and financial planning:

Insurance Coverage: Understand your insurance coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs associated with the surgery.
Paperwork: Complete any necessary forms for leave or disability claims to ensure a smooth process for receiving benefits or compensation during your recovery.

What to Expect for the Days Leading to Your Surgery

Seven Days Before Surgery:

Stop taking vitamin E, multivitamins, herbal remedies, and other dietary supplements as they can cause bleeding.

One Day Before Surgery:

Eating: For morning admissions (before 7:00-10:30 am), you may eat food up until 2:30 am. For afternoon admissions (11:00 am-onwards), eat a light breakfast (milk allowed) until 6:00 am.
Drinking: For morning admissions (before 7:00-10:30 am), you can drink clear fluids until 6:00 am. For afternoon admissions (11:00 am-onwards), you can drink clear fluids until 11:00 am.
Hygiene: Shower or bathe as instructed, often with a special antiseptic soap.
Sleep: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep to be well-rested.

Morning of Surgery:

Medication Instructions: Take only the medications your care team instructs you to, using just a small sip of water. This may include all, some, or none of your usual morning meds.
Hospital Arrival: Arrive at the hospital at the designated time.
Medication List: Bring a list of current medications and any known allergies.

Hospital Stay

You’ll receive personalised recommendations beforehand based on your individual situation, but here is a general overview of what to expect upon arriving at the hospital.

The hospital stay for a bilateral oophorectomy typically ranges from 1 to 2 days. However, this can vary depending on the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the surgery, and any potential complications that might arise. Some patients may even be discharged the same day if the procedure is done laparoscopically and there are no complications.

When a bilateral oophorectomy is combined with a hysterectomy, the hospital stay is usually longer, typically ranging from 2 to 4 days. The exact length of stay can vary based on factors such as the type of hysterectomy (abdominal, laparoscopic, or vaginal), the patient’s overall health, and whether any complications occur during or after the surgery.

Your medical team will assess the situation and make the best decisions to ensure your optimal outcome, adjusting your stay as necessary for your overall health and recovery.

To get a breakdown of items to bring to the hospital, have a look at our Hospital Stay Checklist.

Arriving at the Hospital

Upon arrival, you’ll be asked to confirm your name and birth date multiple times for safety. You’ll change into a hospital gown, robe, and non-skid socks before surgery.

Before the procedure, you’ll meet with a nurse to discuss any medications you took after midnight and may receive an IV. You’ll be given medication to help empty your bowels. You’ll also consult with an anesthesiologist to review your medical history and anaesthesia options, and discuss any concerns. Lastly, you’ll meet with the surgeon to discuss the procedure and address any final questions or concerns.

Getting Ready for Surgery

When it’s time for surgery, personal items like glasses or lenses, will need to be removed. You’ll be assisted to the operating room, where compression socks will be applied to support blood flow. Anaesthesia will be administered via the IV, and you’ll receive fluids throughout the procedure.

During Surgery

During surgery, a breathing tube and urinary catheter will be used to support your breathing and monitor output. Post-surgery, your incisions will be closed with staples, stitches, or surgical glue. The breathing tube is usually removed in the operating room.

After Surgery

In the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU), you’ll be monitored for vital signs and may receive oxygen. After recovery, you’ll be moved to your hospital room where you’ll begin your recovery process. Walking and using prescribed pain relief will be encouraged to aid in your recovery and prevent complications.

For the recovery from surgery, have a look at our Post-Surgery toolkit.

By following this toolkit, you’ll be better prepared for your surgery and the recovery process. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice and information specific to your situation. Remember, being well-prepared can reduce anxiety and contribute to a smoother surgery and recovery. Your healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to them.

References

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, About Your Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy, [Accessed: 26 Aug 2024].

Rotorua Hospital, Your Admission for a Procedure or Surgery: Patient Information, [Created: July 2021].

[Updated: 9 Sept 2024]