Pre-op instructions

• Let us know if you take medication for blood pressure, blood clotting, heart conditions, diabetes, rheumatism, nervousness, depression, mental illness, birth control, teas, herbs, vitamin supplements or drugs.
• Notify our office of any change of health (colds, infections, diarrhea).
• Do not smoke for one month before surgery.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages one week before surgery.
• Eat healthily and build your immune system.

Avoid the following at least three weeks before and three weeks after surgery. This is not a complete list, consult your physician or anesthesiologist.

• Aspirin / salicylates: Bayer Aspirin, Ecotrin, Empirin, Excedrin, Bufferin, BC Powder, St. Joseph Aspirin, Anacin, Alka-Seltzer, Pepto-Bismol.
• NSAIDs / ibuprofen: Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Naprosyn, Naproxen, Indomethacin, Voltaren, Diclofenac, Feldene, Daypro, Toradol, Ketoprofen.
• Anticoagulants: Coumadin (Warfarin), Heparin, Lovenox, Fragmin, Persantine, Ticlid, Plavix-type, Pentoxifylline.

• Eat light. Take nothing by mouth (total fasting) eight hours before surgery. If you need prescribed medication allowed by Dr. Urzola, take it with the smallest amount of water possible.
• Wash your hair. Remove all piercings or rings.
• Go to Admissions no less than one hour before surgery. All documents sent to your email must be completed and signed.
• Dress comfortably; no makeup, jewelry or nail polish.

• Take a good shower with antibacterial soap, extreme hygiene helps prevent postoperative infections.
• Do not bring valuables or bags.
• Bring your purse in case there is something to pay for after surgery; OR fees are an estimated cost.

• Bleeding (avoid 2 weeks prior):Bilberry, Cat's Claw, Feverfew, Garlic, Ginger, Ginkgo biloba, Omega-3 / fish / flaxseed oil, Red Clover, Vitamin C > 4 g/day, Vitamin E > 400 IU/day.
• Anesthesia (avoid 1 week prior):Ephedra, Kava Kava, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Licorice, Passion Flower, Skull Cap, St. John's Wort, Valerian, Yohimbe.