Preparing for Surgery — HeroPreparing for Your Surgery
Understanding what to expect before and after your operation helps ensure a successful outcome and a faster return to the activities you love. Discuss all your concerns with your surgeon.
Surgery ProcessThe process
Your Surgery Journey
Consultation & consent
Your surgery consent form is completed at consultation. Dr. Stoita will walk you through all risks and complications associated with your procedure. A financial consent will also be completed detailing Medicare, private fund, and any out-of-pocket costs.
Pre-operative testing
Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray may be required before surgery. Your GP and any relevant specialists will help optimise existing medical conditions. Medications may need to be adjusted or stopped prior to surgery — especially those that increase bleeding risk.
Pre-admission clinic
The hospital will contact you to schedule a pre-admission appointment. You'll be fully assessed and briefed on your hospital stay, the type of anaesthetic to be used, the likely postoperative course, and any special instructions including physiotherapy or rehabilitation programs.
Research participation (optional)
Dr. Stoita collects de-identified data on hip, knee, and pelvis surgeries for research and publication. A database consent form will be provided prior to surgery. Participation is entirely voluntary and will have no impact on your care.
Day before surgery
The hospital will contact you with fasting instructions (nil by mouth). Confirm your transport arrangements and ensure someone will be with you for the first night after surgery.
Before Surgery
Preparation Checklist
Important — Infections
Report any active infections to your surgeon immediately. Surgery cannot proceed until all infections have completely cleared up.
Medications
- Review all current medications with Dr. Stoita and your GP before surgery
- Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications may need to be stopped to reduce bleeding risk
- Disclose all supplements and over-the-counter medications
Health & Lifestyle
- If overweight, lose weight beforehand — but do not diet in the final month before surgery
- Stop or cut down smoking to reduce surgical risk and improve recovery
- Reduce alcohol consumption and maintain a well-balanced diet
Dental & Health Checks
- Address any tooth or gum problems before surgery
- Treat any bladder or bowel issues to reduce postoperative infection risk
- Report any active infection to Dr. Stoita before your surgery date
Research Participation
Dr. Stoita collects de-identified data on hip, knee, and pelvis surgeries for research and publication. A database consent form will be provided prior to surgery. Participation is entirely voluntary and will not affect your care in any way.
Pre-Admission
Before Your Procedure
Prior to surgery the hospital of your choice will contact you with an appointment to the pre-admission clinic. You will be fully assessed and provided with all the information about your hospital stay, anaesthetic, and postoperative instructions.
Medical tests
Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray are typically required. Your GP and specialists will help optimise any medical conditions beforehand.
Fasting instructions
The day before your surgery, the hospital will contact you with instructions on when to start fasting (nil by mouth).
Rehabilitation plan
Detailed information about physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs will be provided closer to the time of surgery.
You will have a full opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions at your pre-admission appointment. Do not hesitate to contact our office on (02) 8005 5111 at any time.
Day SurgeryDay Surgery
Going Home
If you are having day surgery, there are a few important things to keep in mind for a safe and comfortable journey home.
1
Arrange a driver
Have someone available to take you home. You will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
2
No food or drink on the way home
Do not eat or drink anything in the car on the trip home. The combination of anaesthesia, food, and car motion can quite often cause nausea or vomiting.
3
Eat lightly when you're ready
After arriving home, wait until you are hungry before trying to eat. Begin with a light meal and try to avoid greasy food for the first 24 hours.
4
Have someone stay with you
Ensure you have somebody at home with you for the first night after surgery for your safety and comfort.
After Surgery
Preparing Your Home
It is important to be prepared for your return home after surgery. Making a few simple adjustments beforehand will help you recover safely and comfortably.
Organise help at home
Arrange for someone to assist with everyday tasks like cooking, shopping, and laundry during your recovery period.
Easy access to essentials
Put items that you use often within easy reach before surgery so you won't have to reach up high or bend down as often.
Remove fall hazards
Remove all loose carpets and rugs, and tape down any electrical cords to avoid trips and falls while your mobility is reduced.
Suitable seating
Make sure you have a stable chair with a firm seat cushion, a firm back, and two arms to help you sit and stand safely.
