Going For Surgery

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 MONTH BEFORE

Contact your urologist if you have been admitted to hospital for a medical problem in the last 4-6 weeks of surgery (eg heart attack, stroke, pneumonia)

 WEEK BEFORE

Most patients need to STOP taking their blood thinning medications 7-10 days before surgery. If you have not received clear instructions on what to do and are still taking the medication, contact your surgeon or local doctor immediately.

 DAY BEFORE

If you do not have diabetics OR are a diabetic on diet control only:
Fast from MIDNIGHT (no food or drinks) before if surgery is due in early morning (0800 hours). Do not take your diabetes tablet medication

If you have diabetes and are on insulin:
Because you are fasting, most patients take only half their usual insulin dose in the morning when it is due. Have a sweet drink or snack if you develop symptoms of low sugar (hypoglycaemia).

 THINGS TO PACK

Bring firm, supportive fitting underwear, such as jocks to wear after surgery for comfort and to decrease the risk of swelling

ALL relevant tests – ultrasound scans, x-rays, blood and urine tests.

ALL current medication