Preoperative Information for an Anorectal Surgical Procedure

• The Process
• Commonly Asked Questions

The Process

• Before Surgery
  You may need to have a preoperative physical exam by your primary or referring physician. You will be given a sheet of instructions for cleansing the rectum.
  
  
• Day of Surgery
  On the day of surgery, report to the admitting area to register. A nurse will take your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse and temperature) and go through a list of questions to ensure you are ready for surgery. If your doctor or anesthesiologist requires a chest x-ray or EKG and these were not done as part of your preoperative examination, you may have them done at the hospital. Blood will be drawn and sent to the laboratory for current test results. You may also be asked to give a urine specimen. Then your family will be directed to the surgical waiting room and you will go to a preop room. The anesthesiologist will talk with you about options for anesthesia.
  
  
• In the Operating Room
  You will be escorted into the operating room. An IV will be started. You will receive medication to relax you and then the anesthesia chosen by you and your doctors will be given. You will be positioned on your stomach over a roll. The length of surgery varies from patient to patient and is determined by the general health of the patient and how complicated the surgery is.
  
  
• After Surgery
  Following surgery you will be taken to the recovery room where specially trained nurses will care for you. Your doctor will meet your family after surgery to discuss your condition.
  
  
• Getting Ready for Surgery
  To prepare for your surgery—
  
  
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery; this includes water and chewing gum.
  • Continue to take medication as prescribed, but with only a sip of water. Do not take ibuprofen, aspirin or any medication containing aspirin for one week before your surgery.
  • Do not smoke after midnight the night before your surgery.
  • Do not wear any make-up, especially eye make-up.
  • Do not bring large sums of money, jewelry, or credit cards.
  • If you wear contact lenses, bring the case.
  • Do not wear artificial nails or nail polish. Your nails are monitored during surgery to identify oxygen and blood circulation.
  • Bring a list with you of all medications and their dosages.
  • Bring your insurance identification cards.

Commonly Asked Questions

1. How long will I be in the hospital?
   Most likely you will be discharged on the same day. In some situations you may stay in the hospital one or two nights.
   
   
2. Will I have stitches?
   The use of stitches depends on the procedure. However, if they are used, they will dissolve in a few weeks. There may be some bleeding at that time.
   
   
3. How much pain will I have and how is it managed?
   The incision does cause pain. You will be given pain medication to take at home. If you need a refill for a pain medication, you must call your pharmacy during normal business hours. Our policy is that we do not refill pain medications or prescriptions after hours or on weekends because your chart is not available. The doctor on call is not allowed to refill your prescription.
   
   
4. What kind of diet will I be on at home?
   You will be on a regular diet.
   
   
5. Will it hurt to move my bowels?
   Yes, there will be pain. Avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water (8-10 glasses of liquid per day), and taking natural fiber products. Taking baths will also help to relieve the pain. Do not take laxatives unless directed by your doctor. Passing loose stools is painful.
   
   
6. Will I have bleeding?
   It is normal to have bleeding with your bowel movements for up to two weeks. If you pass more than a cupful of blood, you should call your doctor.
   
   
7. How soon can I exercise?
   You can do whatever you are comfortable doing and what you can tolerate. You may increase your activity as you tolerate it.
   
   
8. What medications will I need at home?
   You will be given pain medication. You should resume your usual medications if directed to do so by your doctor.
   
   
9. How soon can I drive?
   You can drive when you are comfortable enough to do so and are no longer taking pain medication.
   
   
10. When can I go back to work?
    Return to work varies depending on your procedure. Discuss this with your doctor.
    
    
11. What will I have to do at home?
    You will be able to care for yourself, but you may need some assistance with cooking, housekeeping, and grocery shopping.
    
    
12. Do I need someone to stay with me at home?
    It would be preferable to have someone stay with you.
    
    
13. When can I have sex?
    This varies with the procedure. Discuss this with your doctor.
    
    
14. Can I swim in a pool or lake?
    Yes, you can swim in either one.

If your doctor is not available, a doctor on call is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays. After hours call any of our offices and the answering service will locate one of our doctors on call. In an emergency try to contact us for advice before you to the hospital. A telephone call may save you a lot of time, money, and discomfort.

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