Pre-operative Preparation: Your Guide to a Safe and Smooth Endoscopic Surgery

Pre-operative Preparation: Your Guide to a Safe and Smooth Endoscopic Surgery

Although Endoscopic Spine Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed for a rapid recovery, proper preparation is the most critical first step. Being well-prepared significantly minimizes surgical risks and sets the stage for optimal healing.

To help you feel at ease and ready for your procedure, here is what you need to know and do before your surgery day:

1. Comprehensive Health Evaluation (Pre-operative Clearance)

Your safety is our absolute priority. Before surgery, all patients undergo a thorough health screening, which typically includes:

• Blood Tests: To check complete blood count, kidney and liver function, and blood sugar levels.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) and Chest X-ray: To evaluate heart and lung function. For our senior patients, we work closely with internal medicine specialists and anesthesiologists to ensure you are medically optimized for the procedure.

2. Medication and Supplement Management

This is a vital step! Certain medications affect blood clotting, which can increase the risk of post-operative bleeding (epidural hematoma).

• Stop 7-10 days before surgery: Blood thinners (e.g., Aspirin, Plavix, Warfarin) and certain NSAIDs.
• Stop dietary supplements: Fish oil, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, and Vitamin E, as they can interfere with normal blood clotting.
• Medications to continue: Blood pressure medications (as directed) are usually taken with a tiny sip of water on the morning of surgery. Always provide your surgeon with a complete list of your medications.

3. Fasting (NPO)

To prevent aspiration during anesthesia, you must not eat or drink anything (including water, candy, or gum) for at least 6-8 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time.

4. The Day of Surgery Preparations

• Hygiene: Shower and wash your hair thoroughly the night before or the morning of surgery. We may recommend using a special antibacterial soap on your back.
• Leave the Extras at Home: Remove all nail polish (so our pulse oximeter can read your oxygen levels accurately), do not wear makeup, and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
• What to Pack: Bring loose, comfortable clothing (like a button-down shirt) for your journey home. Since endoscopic spine surgery allows for rapid mobilization, patients typically only stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 nights.

However, as all patients' conditions are varied and the decision-making process should be individualized, the feasibility of doing spinal endoscopy might not be the same for each patient. Consultation with a spine specialist is strongly recommended.