Pre-Operative Instructions

Assistive Devices: 

  • Prior to surgery day, have your assistive device (crutches/knee scooter/walker) prescription filled and ensure that you know how to use them. You will receive further training after surgery on using the crutches/knee scooter/walker.
  • Please remember to bring the crutches/knee scooter/walker with you on the day of surgery.

Transportation & Driving:

  • You must arrange for transportation after the surgery.
  • Regardless of the procedure performed, you will not be able to drive yourself home.
  • Please talk to the Department of Foot & Ankle Surgery about other driving restrictions.
  • Plan on a minimum of two weeks off from work or physical activities, for recovery.
  • You will need to arrange for help for the first few days after surgery and cannot stay home alone.
  • Do not plan any travel for the first six weeks after surgery to minimize the risk of a complication, including blood clots after surgery.

Pre-Operative Medical Clearance:

  • All patients are required to see their Primary Care Provider to ensure that they are medically stable to have surgery. 
  • You will need to have a pre-operative exam within 28 days prior to your surgery. This exam is to assure that you are in the best possible health for anesthesia and surgery. 
  • Appropriate lab tests, x-rays, and an EKG may be obtained to ensure pre-operative clearance before surgery.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Department of Foot & Ankle Surgery via the patient portal or by phone.
  • Please contact our office by phone if you are ill with a sore throat, severe cold, fever, flu or have dental surgery and/or an emergency room visit within a week prior to your scheduled surgery.

Medications to Stop Before Surgery:

  • Please inform us of any and all medications and supplements that you are taking.
  • Refrain from taking aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) or blood thinners one week prior to surgery.
  • No garlic, fish oil, or Omega-3 fatty acid supplements for one week prior to surgery under the prescriber’s supervision.
  • On the morning of surgery refrain from taking diabetic pills or insulin, unless directed otherwise by your provider or surgeon.
  • If you are currently taking any other medications, take them on the day of your surgery with just a sip of water, unless directed otherwise by your provider or surgeon.

Paperwork and Prescriptions:

  • Bring all necessary paperwork to the office prior to surgery.
  • Please allow 7-10 business days for the completion of any FMLA or short-term disability paperwork. A one-time $20 fee will be collected from the department for completing FMLA or short-term disability paperwork. 
  • Please contact the Department of Foot & Ankle Surgery via the patient portal or phone for prescription refills needed.

Day & Night Before Surgery:

  • Thoroughly wash and scrub your feet to decrease the risk of infection.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. There is a very high anesthetic risk if there is anything in your stomach. This includes chewing gum.
  • If you eat or drink anything after midnight your surgery will be canceled.
  • Click here to download the Preoperative checklist. 
  • The hospital or surgery center will call you the day before surgery to provide your arrival time. Monday surgeries will receive their calls the prior Friday.