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Important Do's and Don’ts Before Surgery
Stop Taking Blood Thinners
Any medication that increases your tendency to bleed (such as Coumadin) must be stopped before surgery. Please be sure to stop taking this medication as discussed with your physician.
Stop Taking Aspirin
All aspirin and aspirin-like products must be stopped one week before surgery. Tylenol may be taken at any time.
Stop Smoking
Smoking irritates your lungs, decreases their efficiency and interferes with your ability to recover from surgery. Each day that you are smoke free will help your lung function improve.You should stop smoking well before surgery.
For more information on smoking cessation programs offered through Massachusetts General Hospital, please call (617) 726-7443.
Continue (or Start) to Exercise
Being active before surgery helps to condition you and often makes you feel better. If you have an exercise program or are participating in a rehabilitation program, please continue this.
If you have been very sedentary, try adding little pieces of activity to your day. Even increasing your level of simple activities of daily living can help. Take a short walk. Vaccuum the house. Climb the stairs. Every little bit helps.
Do Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises will be very important after surgery and can also be a good relaxation technique. If you are coughing up mucus (phlegm) before your surgery, deep breathing and coughing exercises are usually helpful.
If You Are Unwell
If you have a fever or persistent cough, contact your thoracic surgeon immediately.
The Day Before Surgery
On the day before your procedure,
- Try to spend a relaxing evening at home and get a good night’s sleep. Patients often find it helpful to listen to soft music, take a warm shower, read, or participate in other calming activities.
- Do not eat anything after midnight, including mints, chewing gum, etc.
The Day of Surgery
- Take all of your heart medications with just a sip of water, unless otherwise directed by your physician.
- If you are a diabetic, do not take your insulin unless instructed to do so.
- Bring your own comfortable slippers or walking shoes and personal toilet articles.
- Please leave all valuables such as watches and necklaces at home.
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