Preparing for Your Procedure
Preparing for Your Mini-Maze Procedure
Dr. Affleck will explain the Mini-Maze procedure in detail during your consultation. He will also help you prepare for your Mini-Maze surgery to ensure the optimal outcome from the procedure.
Good Health
Being as healthy as possible before your surgery will help you have a successful procedure and will help your recovery. If you have diabetes or are immune-compromised in any way, you should get both under control before your treatment. Both can slow-down the healing process and a compromised immune system can make you more susceptible to infection.
Coumadin & Other Medications
If you are taking Coumadin, warfarin or other blood thinners, or if you are on rate management or antiarrhythmic medications, it is important to discuss your prescription and dosages with Dr. Affleck. He will inform you when and how to discontinue taking blood thinners and other medications before surgery.
Stop Smoking
You probably think you understand all of the hazards of smoking. And while everyday side effects are well known, the operational side effects are very serious. Smoking can cause complications both in surgery as well as during the recovery process. People who smoke have a tougher time under anesthesia. Also, smoking restricts blood vessels, making it very difficult for your cells to receive the oxygen that they need during your surgery. Likewise, not having enough oxygen can slow down the healing process, hampering your body's ability to recover.
If you smoke, it is recommended that you quit smoking a month before your surgery. If you have difficulties quitting smoking talk to your doctor about treatments or help that you can get.
Personal Preparation
To make your recovery as pleasant as possible once you are out of the hospital it is good to prepare your home beforehand. You will need lots of rest after your surgery so preparing your bedroom or living room as a place to relax and recover is recommended. Make sure you have any emergency phone numbers you may need nearby. Get any prescriptions you will need after surgery filled before your procedure day.
Your mobility may be limited after surgery so moving needed objects from tall cupboards or shelves to waist height can be very helpful. If you have pets, you may want someone to take care of them for your first few days out of the hospital.
Dr. Affleck and his staff will help you prepare for your Mini-Maze surgery, and will explain to your family and loved ones what to expect during recovery, but no one knows your needs and habits better than you. Taking a little time before your day of surgery to prepare yourself and your surrounds will help your recovery.
You can't begin to prepare for you Mini-Maze until you contact Western Cardiovascular Associates online or call us at 801-743-4750.