Pre-Surgical Testing

Depending on your surgical procedure, you may require a physical exam and some diagnostic tests. These tests may include blood work, chest x-rays, EKG, stress tests, and pulmonary function studies. Your surgeon will advise you what tests you need. If you are of child bearing age, you will be asked to give a urine sample.

Medications to Discontinue Before Surgery

If you use prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and/or herbal supplements for any reason, please discuss taking them with your surgeon.

Normally, you will be asked to stop taking certain medications at least one week before surgery because many of these drugs and herbs can increase your risk of bleeding. If you are taking blood thinners, you will need to consult your physician regarding plans for stopping these medications a week prior. They may be restarted shortly after surgery.

Pre-Operative instructions

Please follow all your physician’s instructions carefully. they are for your safety. If these instructions are not followed, it could result in the cancellation of your surgery.

  • *If you are ill, running a fever, vomiting, or on antibiotics, call the doctor’s office to reschedule your procedure. You will need to be off your antibiotics for 2 weeks prior.*
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight the evening prior to your surgery. This includes gum or candy. You can brush your teeth and rinse your mouth, but do not swallow any water.
  • Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or use tobacco for at least 72 hours prior to surgery
  • If you take medications regularly your surgeon will want you to take them the morning of your procedure with a small sip of water. These include: Blood Pressure, Heart, Thyroid, Seizure, Pain, Anxiety, Asthma, or Stomach Medications (i.e. Prilosec, Nexium).
  • If you are diabetic, DO NOT take your diabetic medication. Bring your insulin with you. If you are concerned about your blood sugar, call SVOSC (575) 434-3488 for instructions.
  • DO NOT take diuretics the day of your procedure.

A nurse from our facility will contact you before your surgery date to be sure we have all the information we need, and that any questions you may have are answered. The nurse will review your medical history and confirm your surgery time. Please be prepared to review all medications you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal remedies or dietary supplements. Click here to download a Universal Medication Form. While most items cause no problems in day-to-day use, it is possible that some items may interact with medications or anesthesia routinely used during procedures, and thereby cause problems. Providing a complete list of medications and supplements with respective dosages will help avoid any such difficulties.