If you’re like most people, you want to do everything in your power to ensure your surgical operation goes as smoothly as possible. People want their surgery to go perfectly, but sometimes they incorrectly assume that the doctor holds all the power. An experienced surgeon is crucial to the success of your operation, but you also play a big role in whether or not you experience the best results. Today, we share five tips for giving yourself the best chance to have a successful spine surgery.

5 Ways To Prepare For Back Surgery

Here are five tips to remember before you head in for your surgery.

1. Ask Questions – As we mentioned in this blog, doctors love it when patients ask relevant questions about their condition and upcoming operation. It shows the doctor that the patient is committed to having a successful operation and treating their condition, and it helps to reduce anxiety and the fear of the unknown. If you get answers to your questions, you’ll feel more confident heading into surgery, and having a healthy mindset plays a big role in the success of your surgery and rehab.

2. Healthy Diet – Don’t load up on the pizza and beer in the days leading up to an operation. Your body will want to have a healthy amount of vitamins and nutrients in the days and weeks leading up to your operation, and poor diet choices can lead to inflammation and more pain. Also, since your spine bears your weight when you move and walk, if you gain weight leading up to your operation, your back is going to have to handle even more stress when it’s in a weakened state after surgery. Make healthy food choices in the time leading up to surgery.

3. Exercise – This may not be all that easy depending on when type of spinal operation you’re about to undergo, but exercise and strength training can help build muscles and other structures that support your spine. Exercise can also help push oxygenated blood to areas of your spine, which can help keep these places healthy leading up to surgery. Stronger and healthier muscles and tissues respond better to the trauma of surgery than weakened or dehydrated muscles.

4. Be An Open Book – During your pre-surgical consultation, be an open book. A doctor isn’t there to judge you or to shame you, they just want to know about your daily habits and health history so that they can best prepare for surgery. If you smoke, if you have a family history of high blood pressure or if you are allergic to certain anesthetics, let your doctor know so there are no surprises on the day of surgery.

5. Pre-Surgical Instructions – Odds are your doctor is going to give you some instructions on what you should do in the 24-48 hours leading up to surgery. Follow those instructions to the letter. Do not eat or drink or take medications after the listed times.

For more tips on how to prepare for your spine surgery, or to set up an appointment with a back surgeon, contact Dr. Chang today.