How To Prepare For Surgery

An article in the AARP magazine notes that the average American has nine operations during a lifetime and suggests ways to shape up before surgery:

• Get blood sugar under control--a fasting blood glucose test will disclose elevated blood sugar levels, which, if untreated, triple the risk of postsurgical infection and quadruple the risk of death during heart surgery
• Discontinue smoking--nicotine constricts small blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack during surgery and hampers wound healing.  Smoking cessation for a month prior to surgery brings healing into a normal range.
• Mild exercise--walking, even a mile, without becoming overly fatigued, promotes better recovery
• Decrease alcohol--alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures, nervous system damage, irregular heartbeat, respiratory failure, and death during surgery
• Stop herbal supplements--for at least two weeks before surgery, especially ginkgo biloba, ginseng and valerian
• If you have sleep apnea--breathing problems during surgery and recovery are common
• Review medications--especially blood thinners, beta blockers, and review with your surgeon
• Prescription drink supplements--for five days before surgery to be properly nourished, reduces the risk of postsurgical complications

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309