Start now. Take care of yourself. Preparing for spine surgery begins a few weeks before the actual surgery. The checklist below outlines some common tasks that your surgeon may ask you to complete in the weeks prior to your surgery date. Check with your surgeon to discuss your specific pre-surgery instructions and risks.
How should I
prepare for surgery?
In the weeks ahead
Exercise under your doctor’s supervision.
Get a physical.
Get a dental checkup.
Stop smoking.
Lose weight if you’re overweight.
Closer to the surgery
Arrange a pre-surgery visit with your doctor.
Get lab tests that the doctor orders.
Complete health forms.
Prepare and freeze some meals to make it easier when you get home.
Choose and talk to a physical therapist to learn some important activities for after surgery.
Decide whether you’ll go to a rehab or home after surgery.
Talk to your surgeon’s team about if or when to stop your routine medications.
The night before
Fast – nothing to eat or drink.
Bathe the surgical area with the antiseptic solution provided to you.