Before Surgery
UniSpacer Knee System
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The following section provides an overview of what to expect before, during, and after UniSpacer surgery. These are general guidelines only. Each patient is unique; your situation may differ depending upon your condition. This information is not intended to replace consultation with your physician. |
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Tests and Consultations
You may need to have a few preadmission tests done in the weeks prior to your surgery. These tests may include blood tests, a urine sample, an EKG, and a chest x-ray, depending upon your age and health. These tests may be performed either at the hospital or another testing site such as your primary care physician’s office.
You may also be scheduled to speak to an Anesthesiologist about the anesthesia you are to receive during surgery, or about any problems you have had with anesthesia in the past. You also may be asked by your surgeon or the Anesthesiologist to see your primary care physician or a specialist for clearance to proceed with your surgery. The purpose of this testing and the visits with these physicians is to ensure that you are mentally and physically prepared for your surgery.
Important Documents
When you are scheduled to go to the hospital or surgery center for testing or for surgery, please make sure that you take with you the following important documents:
All paper pertaining to your surgery given to you by your doctor’s office
- Insurance cards
- List of medications you take
- List of any allergies you have
- A written or typed medical history of all prior surgeries and illnesses
The Day Before Surgery
Fasting
Your doctor’s office will give you specific
instructions about fasting before surgery. Typically, patients are told not
to eat or drink anything after midnight the day before surgery.
What to Wear
Wear comfortable clothing to the hospital. Do not
wear any makeup or nail polish.
Medications
If you are
on medications, you should have received instructions about which
medications you should take the morning of your surgery.
If you have
any further questions about whether or not your medications should be taken
the morning of surgery, please ask the nurse or contact your doctor’s office.
Your Surgical Team
You will be cared for by a team of professionals whose ultimate goal is to get you back on your feet.
The Orthopaedic Surgeon is a highly trained specialist who will operate on your knee.
The Nursing Team will monitor your condition and help make you as comfortable as possible during your stay in the hospital.
The Physical Therapist will work with you to regain mobility and strengthen the muscles in your legs.
The Anesthesia Team will administer anesthesia during surgery, so you won’t feel any pain during the operation.
A Case Manager may assist you in making arrangements for rehabilitation and home health services if needed.
