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Preparing for Surgery

Before your surgery

We expect you to be in hospital for approximately 12 – 24 hours after your surgery. In some cases, you may be able to go home on the same day as surgery. You will be discharged once you have met your discharge criteria which is;

  1. Drinking fluids adequately
  2. Pain is reasonably well controlled on the pain medication you are given
  3. Nausea reasonably well controlled on anti-sickness medication
  4. Medically fit for discharge (surgeons will review and make this decision)
  • Please arrive at the hospital as advised in your letter
  • You will be required to fast (stop eating, including no milk) for six hours prior to surgery (you can have clear fluids up to 2 hours before surgery). This will be discussed at your pre-assessment appointment
  • You will be prescribed medications to take prior to the operation. It is extremely important that you take these medications as prescribed and at the right time. If you have any concerns about taking these please contact us
  • Any other regular medications that you take will be discussed in detail at your pre-assessment appointment
  • It is very important that you follow a liver shrinkage diet (this is usually a liquid diet) for 2-4 weeks before surgery. If you cannot follow a liquid diet for medical reasons, an alternative plan will be discussed and agreed with you.

Preparing for your stay in hospital

Prepare for discharge before you come in.

Please ensure you have a suitable environment to be discharged to before you come into hospital. You do not necessarily need someone to stay with you if you normally live alone. If you require advice or assistance with this please contact your GP or local Social Services prior to admission.

There are a few simple things you will need to do prior to your admission which may make things easier for you when you return home.

  • Have a stock of high protein, nourishing fluids ready as listed in Phase 2 of your post op diet
  • Ensure your house is free of clutter so it is easier and safer to move around
  • Changing bed linen is often a good idea
  • Arrange for a repeat prescription of your regular medications (if any)
  • Have a supply of paracetamol at home for managing mild pain
  • Please ensure you have transport arrangements for getting home e.g. friends and/or family. If you arrived by hospital transport please ensure you have made arrangements for your return home when booking your admission journey
  • If you need a taxi ensure you have sufficient funds to pay for it

Things to bring in with you…

  • Your CPAP machine (if you use one)
  • Comfortable day clothes to wear on the ward (including footwear)
  • Nightwear
  • Sleep aids e.g. eye masks, ear plugs
  • Personal hygiene items (washing, shaving etc)
  • Any medications you are on, especially any pain medications as these should be continued after your surgery (in most cases). Your surgical team will advise you. (Please ensure these are in original boxes and that you give them to your nurse on arrival to the ward – do not take any of these unless instructed to by your nurse or doctor)
  • Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospital which you can use with your own personal devices, although please be aware, these remain your responsibility
  • Books, magazines, personal entertainment devices and a small amount of money if you require anything from the hospital shop

Admission to Hospital

 Day of Surgery

  • You will receive a letter advising you of your date and time of surgery along with fasting instructions. Please read and follow these carefully. Please note that milk is classed as food and should be stopped 6 hours before your surgery
  • Please ensure you are well hydrated when you come in for your surgery. You should aim to drink between 1.5 – 2 litres of any fluids in the 24 hours before your surgery. You can drink water up to 2 hours prior to admission time
  • You will be given a pair of anti-embolism stockings to wear during surgery (unless advised otherwise) which help prevent blood clots forming
  • You will need to change into a hospital gown and you will have to remove or tape any jewellery and remove any dentures and glasses. These can be removed at the last minute if you need them
  • You will be seen by an anaesthetist who will discuss your anaesthetic plan. Please inform them of all the medications and analgesia (if applicable) that you are currently taking
  • You will then be escorted to theatre by hospital staff
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