Before any planned operation you should understand what is being proposed, why it is being proposed, what the realistic alternatives are, and what recovery is likely to involve. If any of that is unclear, ask again — consent is only meaningful when it is informed.
You will usually be told when to stop eating and drinking. Follow these times exactly, because they exist for anaesthetic safety. Tell the team about every medicine you take, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines and herbal preparations, and ask specifically which ones to continue.
Plan your recovery before the day. Arrange someone to bring you home, prepare easy meals, and ask how long you should stay off work or away from lifting and driving.
Bring previous reports and scans with you, and bring a list of your questions. Write down the answers — it is hard to remember detail on the day.
General health information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For advice about your own situation, please speak to a healthcare professional.
