Before your Surgery
Pre-operative instructions
The fitter and healthier you are before surgery, the safer and quicker you’ll recover after surgery.
There are a number of things you can do to help you get a positive outcome following surgery, and lower your risk profile. Dr Collins is focussed on working with you to ensure your surgery is a success.
Perioperative physician
If you have a complex medical history, you may be referred to a perioperative physician specialist for a review to optimise your medical conditions and minimise your risk profile.
Infection prevention and risk/complication minimisation:
Perioperative nutrition:
A healthy diet for at least 6 weeks prior to surgery
An anti-inflammatory diet (Mediterranean or similar) that is low in salt
Supplementation is encouraged, Dr Collins is happy to recommend options
Body mass index (BMI): a healthier BMI means lower risk of complications
A BMI less than 40 is paramount, ideally less than 30
Even a 5% body weight reduction can reduce complications
Skin health:
Ensure no open sores, scratches, wounds or bites on your legs/body, please contact us prior to your surgery if you have concerns
Pre-operative Wash – A Chlorhexidine surgical wash of your operative leg from the chemist (https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/50102/microshield-4-chlorhexidine-surgical-handwash-500ml) is recommended to be used daily for 2-3 days prior to your surgery up until the morning of your surgery.
Pre-existing swelling/oedema: in lower legs should be being treated
Good dental hygiene/health
Mental health: if you feel you’re suffering from anxiety or depression, it is important to seek assistance and treatment BEFORE your surgery.
Kidney/Bladder/Prostate/Incontinence: Treatment and management of these issues prior to surgery can help decreased your infection risk.
Blood tests:
Correct low albumin
Correct anaemia (Low haemoglobin)
Diabetes control (HbA1c <7.5)
Stop smoking
Remain as active as your pain permits: any activity for 20-30 minutes that doesn’t aggravate or cause significant pain.
Cryotherapy & compression: Dr Collins recommends the use of RE3 cryotherapy compression braces, be it as part of non-operative treatment, or before and after surgery to manage swelling and associated pain. The benefits of cryotherapy and compression are well recognised.
Social/home situation
A caregiver for the first few days and week at home is important
A COACH (or two) during your recovery and rehabilitation helps improve your outcomes, identify that person NOW
Prepare your home for your recovery (https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000167.htm)
Orthopaedic Surgeon Melbourne
Utilising the latest techniques and technology Kade aims to return you to your best as soon as possible with optimised recovery via a multi-disciplinary and multi-modal approach.