Preparing for Surgery

Pre-Surgery Checklist

• Schedule 2-week and 6-week postoperative visits
• Complete medical clearances within 30 days of surgery
• Complete any required MRI or CT scan at least 2 weeks prior
• Schedule physical therapy to begin ~5 days after surgery
• Submit FMLA or disability paperwork at least 2 weeks prior
• Do not drink alcohol the day before surgery
• Nothing to eat or drink after midnight (except sips of water for medications)

Medical Clearance

• All patients must complete pre-operative anesthesia screening (phone or in person)
• You may need to see your primary care physician or a medical specialist

Imaging

• MRI or CT must be completed at least 2 weeks prior to surgery
• CT scans must use Duke-specific protocol, typically at Duke University Hospital
• If outside Duke system: use PowerShare to send images, and obtain a CD as backup

Brace / Sling

• Fitted on the day surgery is scheduled or at your pre-operative visit
• You are responsible for bringing the brace on surgery day

Day of Surgery

• The surgery center will contact you the day before (or Friday for Monday surgeries)
• Bring: photo ID, insurance card, brace/sling, comfortable clothing
• Leave valuables and jewelry at home
• In pre-op holding area, one family member may accompany you
• You will meet nursing staff, anesthesia team, and Dr. Levin before surgery
• Your support person waits in the waiting area; updates are provided during the procedure
• After surgery: you wake in recovery; your support person joins once you are stable; discharge instructions are reviewed

Medications to Stop Before Surgery

Stop the following medications before surgery. Contact your prescribing physician for anything else.

• Weight loss medications
• Blood thinners (Eliquis, Coumadin, Xarelto, etc.)
• Antiplatelets (Aspirin, Plavix)
• Contact prescribing physician for anything else

You may continue these unless told otherwise:

• Celebrex
• Ultracet
• Glucosamine
• NSAIDs (unless told otherwise)

Physical Therapy

• Typically begins about 5 days after surgery (sometimes 1 day after, sometimes delayed several weeks)
• Follow Dr. Levin's protocol
• Bring your therapy prescription and protocol to your first visit

Insurance

• Contact your insurance provider for coverage details
• Duke financial counselors can assist with cost estimates
• Authorization is handled by Duke's team — allow at least 3 weeks before surgery before contacting authorization staff

FMLA / Disability

• Contact your employer early
• Submit paperwork at least 2 weeks prior to surgery
• Include all required questionnaires
• A HIPAA release must accompany all forms

Important Contacts