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The Secrets to a Stress-Free Operation: How To Prepare for Orthopaedic Surgery

Updated: Jun 6, 2023


You’ve been booked in for the surgery and you can see the pain setting like the sun on the horizon.


But then clouds start rolling in. Your mind starts racing with questions and the impending procedure makes you start feeling a bit anxious.


This is a natural response for several reasons.


Firstly, Humans are afraid of the unknown. Our minds can go into overdrive trying to predict potential problems and their solutions. Secondly, surgery can be a traumatic experience for the body. Foreign elements are entering your system, and your body will try to restore its balance. Lastly, surgery is physically uncomfortable. The accompanying pain and lack of mobility can be a cause of frustration.


This stress can have a negative impact on the outcome of your surgery. So we want to ensure that you are physically and mentally prepared for surgery to help make it a stress-free experience.


This article will give you all the information you need to give you peace of mind and maximise your chances for a successful outcome. Read on to find out:


Table of Contents:


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.



Why it's essential to prepare for orthopaedic surgery


Stress causes physiological changes in the body, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. All of which can affect the body’s ability to heal itself.


Patients who are highly stressed before surgery may experience longer recovery times, increased postoperative pain, and an increased risk of complications such as infections or blood clots. Stress weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off infection.


Stress also affects your mental and emotional wellbeing, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and decreased overall quality of life. If you are stressed in the lead up to surgery, you will be more likely to experience anxiety and depression after the procedure.



How to prepare your body for surgery



Exercise


A woman doing yoga poses on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

Preoperative exercise, also known as prehabilitation, is a fantastic way to mentally and physically prepare yourself for surgery. Regular physical activity before your surgery helps your body prepare for the procedure and improves your overall health and recovery outcomes.


Here are some of the benefits of prehabilitation:


Increased Muscle Strength

Preoperative exercise can help improve muscle strength, which is especially important for recovery after surgery. Muscle activation, muscle fibre recruitment, improved muscle coordination, and increased muscle mass all contribute to stronger muscles. This will help reduce the risk of falls and other post-operative complications. It can also help you regain your strength more quickly, enabling you to return to your normal activities sooner.


Improved Cardiovascular Health

Engaging in preoperative exercise can help improve your cardiovascular health. Benefits include increased heart strength, improved blood circulation, lowered blood pressure, enhanced stamina and endurance, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Having a healthy heart can reduce the risk of heart complications during surgery and promote faster recovery.


Improved Mental Health

Anxiety and stress are common emotions leading up to surgery. Exercise can help reduce these feelings by releasing feel-good hormones, or endorphins, that will help improve your mood. By reducing anxiety and stress, you may be better able to cope with the physical and emotional demands of surgery.


Enhanced Mobility

Strengthening your muscles, restoring your range of motion, improving balance and stability, and reducing stiffness and swelling will make it easier to perform daily activities after surgery and to complete your rehabilitation program.


Faster Recovery

Patients who participate in prehabilitation often have a faster recovery time after surgery and may require less rehabilitation therapy. Preoperative exercise improves circulation and oxygenation, builds muscle strength and endurance, increases joint mobility and flexibility, enhances bone health, and helps with pain management.


Improved Immune Function

Exercise can help improve immune function. This is important because after surgery your body is at greater risk of infection. Enhanced circulation, stress reduction, increased antibody production, regulation of inflammation, and enhanced lymphatic system function can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of infection.


Increased Energy Levels

Regular exercise will boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. Improved oxygen delivery, enhanced endurance and stamina, the release of endorphins, and regulation of sleep patterns will improve your energy levels, helping you cope with the demands of surgery and rehabilitation.



Including preoperative exercise and prehabilitation in your preparation for surgery can be hugely beneficial. However, it is advised that you consult with your surgeon before beginning any exercise program to ensure that it is safe for you and tailored to your specific needs. A physical therapist or exercise specialist can also provide guidance on which exercises will improve surgical outcomes.



Diet


Vegetables, fruits, and nuts spread out on a table alongside a recipe book.

Foods you should avoid before surgery


Eating a well-balanced diet is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, but did you know that certain foods and nutrients can interfere with surgical outcomes? It's crucial to pay attention to your diet in the weeks leading up to surgery to ensure the best possible outcome. It’s important to discuss your diet with your healthcare team to ensure it doesn’t cause any complications.



Foods that thin the blood
  • Garlic and ginger

  • Ginseng

  • Omega-3 supplements

  • Vitamin E supplements

  • Foods high in vitamin K, such as leafy greens (blood clotting)


Garlic and ginger

Garlic and ginger have natural anticoagulant properties, meaning they can thin the blood. Eating too much garlic and ginger before surgery may increase the risk of bleeding, both during and after the procedure. Limit the intake of these foods or avoid them entirely.


Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have blood-thinning properties and can interfere with blood clotting. It is generally recommended to discontinue omega-3 supplements a few weeks before surgery, following the guidance of your healthcare provider.


Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that can also act as a mild blood thinner. High doses of vitamin E may prolong bleeding time and increase the risk of bleeding complications during surgery. It is advisable to discontinue or adjust the use of vitamin E supplements as recommended by your healthcare team before surgery.


Foods high in vitamin K, such as leafy greens

Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens (spinach, kale, broccoli), can counteract the effects of blood-thinning medications. It’s important to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K-rich foods but speak to your healthcare team to ensure proper management of your blood-thinning therapy.


Ginseng

Ginseng is commonly found in energy drinks, supplements, and herbal remedies. It can interfere with anaesthesia and increase the risk of bleeding. To avoid complications, avoid consuming ginseng for at least two weeks before surgery.


Foods that increase inflammation
  • Processed foods high in sugar and saturated fats

  • Foods high in sodium

  • Alcohol

  • Red meat

  • Fried foods

A physiotherapist treating a woman's ankle.

Processed foods high in sugar and saturated fats

These foods can contribute to inflammation in the body, which may hinder the healing process and potentially delay recovery after surgery. These foods can cause irritation and swelling because they contain substances that our bodies see as a kind of "attack." When we eat too much of these foods, our body's defence system gets activated and tries to fight off these substances, which leads to irritation and swelling.


Foods high in sodium

Foods high in sodium, such as processed and packaged snacks, fast food, and certain condiments, can cause irritation and swelling in our bodies because sodium makes our bodies hold onto extra water. This extra water can make our tissues swell up and cause discomfort. This can put additional stress on the cardiovascular system and potentially interfere with the healing process after orthopaedic surgery.


Red meat

Red meat, especially processed and fatty cuts, can contribute to inflammation and potentially slow down the healing process. The high levels of saturated fats and heme iron in red meat have been associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Go for leaner protein sources before orthopaedic surgery, such as fish, poultry, and plant-based proteins.


Fried foods

Fried foods are typically high in unhealthy fats and can contain harmful compounds like trans fats and oxidized fats. It is advisable to choose healthier cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, or steaming, to minimise the intake of fried foods.


Foods that interfere with wound healing
  • Processed foods high in sugar and saturated fats

  • Alcohol

  • Caffeine

  • Foods high in sodium

A leg hanging over the edge of a be with a plaster on the knee.


Processed foods high in sugar and saturated fats

Consuming processed foods that are high in sugar and saturated fats can also negatively impact wound healing. These foods can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, impair immune function, and hinder the body's ability to repair and regenerate tissues. These foods also contribute to the development of chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity, which can further delay wound healing and increase the risk of complications.


Alcohol

Alcohol consumption interferes with the healing process by undermining immune function, delaying collagen synthesis, and increasing the risk of infection. It can also disrupt normal blood clotting mechanisms, leading to excessive bleeding and delayed wound closure. Avoiding alcohol before and after surgery will support wound healing and reduce the risk of complications.


Caffeine

While consuming moderate amounts of caffeine is generally considered safe, excessive consumption can have negative effects on wound healing. Caffeine can cause dehydration, affect blood flow to the wound site, and potentially impair collagen synthesis. It is recommended to moderate caffeine intake before surgery and during the postoperative period to support healing.


Foods high in sodium

Excess sodium can lead to increased blood pressure and negatively affect circulation, potentially reducing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the wound site. Managing sodium intake is vital for maintaining proper fluid balance and supporting optimal wound healing.


Foods that interfere with anaesthesia
  • Garlic

  • Ginger

  • Caffeine

  • Fatty and fried foods

  • Calcium

  • Iron

  • Sodium


Garlic

Garlic contains compounds that can interfere with the normal functioning of enzymes involved in drug metabolism, potentially affecting the breakdown and effectiveness of certain anaesthetics. This could lead to your body reacting unpredictably to the anaesthesia causing complications during orthopaedic surgery.


Ginger

Ginger has properties that can impact blood clotting and platelet function. Consuming ginger before surgery may increase the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. It can also interfere with the anaesthesia, potentially affecting its efficacy and stability.


Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. It may interfere with the action of anaesthetics and increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can pose challenges during surgery. Steer clear of caffeine before surgery to avoid potential anaesthesia-related complications.


Fatty and fried foods

Foods high in unhealthy fats, such as fried foods and fatty cuts of meat, can delay gastric emptying and digestion. This delay can impact the absorption and distribution of anaesthetics, potentially leading to an unpredictable response to anaesthesia, and compromising surgical outcomes.


Calcium

High levels of calcium intake, particularly through supplements, can interfere with certain anaesthetics and muscle relaxants, potentially affecting their effectiveness. Speak to your healthcare team about calcium supplementation before orthopaedic surgery.


Iron

Iron supplements can interfere with the efficacy and action of certain anaesthetics. Speak to your healthcare team about iron supplementation and follow their guidance regarding the appropriate timing and dosage before orthopaedic surgery.


Sodium

High sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. This can affect the cardiovascular system's response to anaesthesia. Managing sodium intake before surgery is important to maintain the optimal balance of fluids in your system and support stable anaesthesia during orthopaedic procedures.



Foods you should eat before surgery

  • Protein

  • Fruits and vegetables

  • Whole grains

  • Healthy fats

  • Water

  • Probiotics

  • Turmeric

  • Berries

  • Vitamin C

  • Vitamin A

  • Zinc

  • Iron


a group of woman sitting around a table preparing salads.

Protein

Protein is essential for tissue repair and recovery. It's important to consume adequate amounts of protein from sources like lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, and lentils. Aim for at least 20-30 grams of protein per meal.


Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals, which can support your immune system and aid in healing. You should aim to include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet, including leafy greens, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes.


Whole grains

Complex carbohydrates can provide sustained energy and are a good source of fibre. Examples of whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, and oats.


Healthy fats

Including healthy fats in your diet, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil, can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.


Water

Staying hydrated before surgery helps support kidney function and prevent dehydration. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water daily. If you are physically active, you may need to drink more than 8 cups or consume some electrolytes.


Probiotics

Consuming foods high in probiotics, such as yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, can help promote gut health and boost your immune system.


Turmeric

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Adding turmeric to your meals or taking a turmeric supplement may help reduce inflammation and pain before surgery.


Berries

Berries are loaded with antioxidants and can help protect your cells from damage. Adding berries to your diet can help support your immune system and help with healing.


Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage and support immune function. Citrus fruits, berries, kiwifruit, peppers, and broccoli all contain plenty of vitamin C.


Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and other orange and yellow fruits and vegetables are all good sources of vitamin A.


Zinc

Found in meats, shellfish, nuts, and seeds, zinc is important for supporting immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis.


Iron

Iron is important for maintaining healthy blood cells and oxygen transport. We’ve already covered the potential complications iron can cause, so make sure to speak to your healthcare team to ensure that you maintain healthy levels of iron.



Smoking and drinking


A man with dirty hands holding a beer and a cigarette.

Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. It can impair the body's ability to heal by reducing blood flow and oxygen levels, slowing down wound healing, and increasing the risk of infection. Smokers are also more likely to experience respiratory problems during anaesthesia and have a higher risk of developing blood clots after surgery.


Nicotine constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow, which interferes with wound healing. Avoid smoking or using nicotine products for at least 24 hours before surgery, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.


Alcohol also negatively affects surgical outcomes. It interferes with the body's ability to heal by compromising the immune system and increasing the risk of infection. Alcohol affects the body's ability to metabolise medications during and after surgery, leading to complications and longer hospital stays.


It’s important to inform your surgeon if you smoke or drink before undergoing orthopaedic surgery. Your surgeon may advise you to quit smoking and drinking in the lead-up to surgery to minimise the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome.



Medications to avoid before surgery


A variety of medication and a thermometer.


Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

These include common painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. They can increase bleeding risk, have the potential for impaired kidney function, have adverse interactions with anaesthesia and pain medications, and potentially delay wound healing.


Blood thinners

Discontinuing blood thinning medications before surgery, such as aspirin, warfarin, heparin, and clopidogrel, is crucial to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding and complications during the procedure. You should inform your surgeon if you're taking any blood thinners, and they will advise you on when to stop taking them before the procedure.


Herbal supplements

Certain herbal supplements such as ginkgo, ginseng, and garlic can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. These supplements can interfere with anaesthesia, affect blood clotting, and cause unpredictable reactions. The lack of regulation and variability in herbal products makes it hard to predict their effects during surgery.


Vitamins

Some vitamins, such as vitamin E, have blood-thinning effects and may interfere with the body's clotting process, while others can interact with anaesthesia drugs or cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions on discontinuing vitamins before surgery to reduce the risk of complications and promote a smoother surgical experience.


Anticoagulants

These medications help prevent blood clots, such as dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban. Discontinuing anticoagulant medication before surgery is crucial to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding and complications during the procedure. These medications interfere with the body's clotting process and can hinder surgical hemostasis, anaesthesia management, and postoperative healing.


Steroids

Corticosteroids such as prednisone can affect wound healing and increase the risk of infection. Corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, impair wound healing, and interfere with anaesthesia drugs, which can lead to complications during and after surgery. You should inform your surgeon if you're taking steroids to reduce the risk of infection, promote proper wound healing, prevent adrenal suppression, and optimise anaesthesia management.


Diabetes medications

If you're taking insulin or other diabetes medications, your surgeon may need to adjust your dosage before the procedure to prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping too low. Discontinuing or adjusting diabetes medication before surgery is vital for maintaining stable blood sugar levels during the procedure.


Diabetes medications can interact with anaesthesia drugs and impact blood sugar regulation, necessitating individualized management plans. Working closely with your healthcare provider is essential to develop a personalised approach that ensures optimal glycemic control and reduces the risk of complications associated with diabetes during surgery. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare team are crucial for a safe and successful surgical experience.


Antibiotics

If you're taking antibiotics for an infection, your surgeon will advise you when to stop taking them before the procedure. Antibiotics may be prescribed before surgery to prevent infection in specific cases, but the choice of antibiotic depends on the type of surgery and the potential pathogens involved. Following the prescribed timing and duration is important to ensure adequate levels of the antibiotic during the procedure.



How to Prepare Your Home


Preparing your home for your return after surgery is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery. Try thinking ahead to what it’s like navigating through your house on crutches or drowsy from pain medication. Something as simple as carrying a plate of food from the kitchen to the dining room can feel like an impossible task when you’re on crutches.


A patient lying in bed holding a pillow.


Tripping hazards

Remove any potential tripping hazards like rugs, loose cords, or cluttered areas that may obstruct your movement.


Remove clutter

Create clear pathways throughout your home so you can move freely, and clear tables and countertops so you can place things easily.


Prepare bathroom

Make your bathroom accessible and safe by installing grab bars near the toilet and shower, using non-slip mats or adhesive strips in the bathtub or shower area, and considering a raised toilet seat if needed. Keep essential toiletries within reach.


Sleeping arrangements

Ensure your sleeping area is comfortable and easily accessible. Place extra pillows or cushions to support your body and make it easier to find a comfortable position. Consider having a nightstand or small table nearby to keep essential items within reach.


Meals

Plan and prepare meals in advance to minimise the need for extensive cooking and grocery shopping. Consider preparing and freezing nutritious meals that are easy to reheat. Keep necessary utensils, glasses, and plates within easy reach.



What to bring to the hospital


An empty hospital hallway.


Comfortable clothing

Bring loose, comfortable clothing that will be easy to change into after your procedure. You may be in some pain afterwards so choose clothes that won’t restrict your movement.


Personal hygiene items

Bring items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any other personal hygiene items that you may need. Most hospital showers have body wash dispensers, but bring your own soap if you have sensitive skin.


Prescription medications

Bring any prescription medications you're currently taking, along with a list of their dosages and frequency.


Insurance and identification cards

Bring your ID card, medical aid details, and the approval letter from your medical aid.


Mobile phone and charger

Bring your mobile phone and charger so that you can stay in touch with your loved ones and have a means of communication during your stay.


Comfort items

Bring items such as a book or other comfort items that may help you relax and pass the time during your hospital stay. There are cases of theft at hospitals so be sure to use the safe-lock cupboards.


Any necessary medical equipment

If you use a cane, walker, or any other medical equipment, bring it with you to the hospital. Some of the big hospitals have medical supply stores on the premises, but most of the smaller hospitals don’t.



What to expect on the day of the operation


A surgeon and his staff performing surgery.


Check-in

When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk and provide your identification, medical aid details, and approval letter from your medical aid. You will be asked to sign some consent forms and complete some paperwork. Hospital reception will then direct you to the orthopaedic ward.


Preparation

You'll be taken to a pre-operative area, where you'll change into a hospital gown and meet your anaesthetist. The anaesthetist will ask you a few questions about your lifestyle and allergies to ensure they give you the correct anaesthetics. It is vital that you are honest about any drugs you may be taking. You may also receive medication to help you relax.


Anaesthesia

Once you're in the operating room, your surgeon and anaesthesia team will ask you a few questions to confirm the scope of the operation. The anaesthesia will be administered, which may be general or regional anaesthesia depending on the operation. Small procedures often only require sedation. Sedation works a lot like local anaesthesia, where you remain conscious.


Surgery

After the anaesthesia has been administered, the surgery will begin. The surgeon will explain the procedure to you sometime in the weeks before surgery, so you will know what to expect at this stage. This usually takes place at the consultation where your scans are reviewed.


Recovery

After the procedure, you'll be taken to a recovery area, where nurses will monitor you until you're awake and alert. You'll receive pain medication to help manage any pain and discomfort.


Discharge

Your surgeon will visit you to update you on the outcome of the procedure and check how you are feeling. If they are happy with the outcome, and you aren’t showing adverse effects from the surgery then you will be discharged from the hospital. You'll receive instructions on how to care for yourself at home, including medication management, physical therapy exercises, and follow-up appointments.



Conclusion:


Surgery can be a daunting experience for some people. There are a lot of different factors that contribute to a successful operation. But the good news is that you can affect a lot of them. You are in control.


By following the steps in this article you can remove the unknown variables that make it stressful.


  • Prepare your musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems by engaging in preoperative exercise.

  • Avoid or limit your intake of certain foods:

    • Foods that thin the blood

    • Foods that increase inflammation

    • Foods that interfere with wound healing

    • Foods that interfere with anaesthetics

  • Consume a healthy diet of:

    • Lean protein

    • Whole grains

    • Fruits and vegetables

    • Vitamins and minerals

  • Stop smoking and drinking alcohol

  • Stop taking medication:

    • NSAIDs

    • Blood thinners

    • Herbal Supplements

    • Vitamin E supplements

    • Anticoagulants

    • Steroids

    • Diabetes Medication

    • Antibiotics

  • Rearrange your furniture to make it easy to navigate through your home.

  • Remove tripping hazards and prepare the bathroom to reduce the risk of slipping.



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DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE


The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.




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