Preparing For Surgery

If you choose to undergo gastric restrictive surgery, we will begin to process your pre-authorization for your medical coverage. After your insurance company grant approval, we will contact you with your scheduled date of surgery.

	Will I need any preoperative tests?
	All patients require specific blood tests, a chest x-ray, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). Patients are also tested for a bacteria that causes ulcers (known as H.pylori) and for gall stones. Some patients may require a sleep study (for sleep apnea) or a psychological evaluation.

Two to Three Weeks Before Surgery

Patients must report to the hospital for Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) as outpatients.

One Week Before Surgery

We recommend avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin), Coumadin and Plavix. All of these drugs tend to cause increased bleeding during surgery. If you are taking any of these drugs, please notify either Dr. Brolin or Dr. Tichansky.

The Day Before Surgery

You will be contacted by the admitting office with the scheduled time you should arrive at the hospital. Usually this will be two to three hours prior to surgery. Additionally, nothing should be ingested (including food and drinks) after midnight the night before your procedure.

Packing For Your Hospital Visit

Here are a few things you may wish to bring with you to the hospital:

• bathrobe
  
  
• slippers
  
  
• shampoo
  
  
• body lotion or hand crème
  
  
• scented soap
  
  
• toothbrush and toothpaste
  
  
• hairbrush or comb
  
  
• a comfortable, loose-fitting outfit
  
  
• magazines
  
  
• a good book
  
  
• crossword puzzles
  
  

The Day of the Operation

The doctor will meet with you before you are anesthetized. You will remain under the effects of general anesthesia during the entire procedure.

	How long does the operation take?
	Anywhere from one to two hours in most cases, occasionally longer.

Admission to the Hospital

Most patients are admitted on the same day as the operation. Admission to the hospital is contingent upon the Pre-Admission Testing performed in the prior weeks.

Patients with major heart or lung problems may be admitted a day or two prior to the operation for more intensive preoperative evaluation and preparation. Such patients may be examined before the operation by appropriate medical specialists who may assist in their management after the operation.