Preparing For Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Once you have agreed to surgery, we will try to schedule your operation at a time that suits you. Usually this is discussed after your appointment, and is via a phone call. You will also receive instructions about your hospital admission, things you can do to prepare for surgery such as fasting and may be contacted by an anaesthetist as well. 

That depends. For patients with more complex health conditions, a discussion with an anaesthetist prior to surgery can be important as it can allow your health to be optimised.

Yes. The time you need to fast on will depend on when your operation is scheduled. We will contact you in the days beforehand to let you know what time is best.

Generally no – although it depends on what medications you are taking. Some medications will need to be stopped such as blood thinners but Dr Lau or the anaesthetic doctor will discuss this with you before your operation.

Some of the operations Dr Lau performs generally lead an overnight stay. These include shoulder arthroplasty/replacements and shoulder arthroscopy (rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilisation, capsular release), where most patients stay only one night. Other operations can be day-stay cases, where you go home a few hours after the operation. These include operations like elbow arthroscopy, some removal of metal cases and some wrist procedures. Dr Lau will discuss this with you prior to surgery.

• A spare change of clothes/pyjamas. A button up shirt can be easier to put on after surgery to the arm.

• Iphone/laptop charger.

• Snacks.

• Regular medications.

• Toiletries.

• Private health information/card.

• It is helpful to make sure you have someone who can drop you off and pick you up after discharge.

Some things may be detrimental to the outcome of your operation if we do not know about them. Skin abrasions or cuts – particularly to the arm you’re having operated on, and in cases of joint replacement – should delay an operation because it increases the risk of infection post operatively.

In addition, if you have any major changes to your health condition or medications, these should be communicated to us as it may be best to delay your procedure until your medical health can be stabilised.