Preparing for surgery

Professor Psaltis operates at Calvary Adelaide , and Memorial Hospitals

Each hospital will require that you complete either a written or online admission form. This will be given to you by Dr Psaltis’ staff prior to your surgical date.

Before general anaesthetic you will be required to FAST from all foods and liquids including water for 6 hours. Chewing gum must also be avoided. You can have your normal morning medications with a sip of water only.

If you are on blood thinning medications please advise Dr Psaltis so a plan for stopping them can be advised upon prior to surgery. These include Aspirin, Warfarin, Clopidogrel, Plavix, Isocover, Pradaxa and Abixiban.

We recommend also stopping over the counter medications known to increase bleeding

• NSAIDs medications 10 days prior to surgery (Ibuprofen, Advil, Nurofen, Voltaren, Celebrex, Mobic, Diclofenac)
• The following over the counter medications that can increase bleeding risk
  • Fish Oil, Krill oil, Omega 3,
  • Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Echinacea, Goldenseal
  • Garlic, Ginger, Ginko, Glucosamine
  • Valerian, St Johns Wort, Kava

Unfortunately, health care funds do not typically cover the entire surgical fee, even with premium or “top-level” cover. You will be provided with a written quote that documents any out-of-pocket expenses related to your surgical procedure. This does not cover your hospital excess or your anaesthetic out-of-pocket expense. We recommend that you contact these parties for this information.

• Wakefield Anaesthetic Group
• STACE Anaesthetic Group