What happens if I need surgery?
Each patient and procedure is unique. The information provided is a general guideline only. You will be provided with detailed instructions during your consultation if surgery is required.
What should I pack for the hospital?
- All current medications
- Personal items including clothing, toiletries, shoes, glasses and charges for your devices
- Please leave your valuables, like jewellery, at home
- Radiology scans (X-ray, MRI, CT scan) if instructed by Dr Dawes
What should I do on the day of my surgery?
You will receive detailed instructions before your operation, which will include admission time and location within the hospital.
As a general rule, you will be required to fast (not eat or drink anything) for a least 6 hours before the surgery. Specific fasting instruction will be provided when surgery is booked.
Do I need to stop any medications?
In most cases blood thinning medications such as warfarin, Plavix and Eliquis will need to be stopped before surgery. When you stop this medication will depend on its indication, the type of surgery you are having and the specific medication. If you are on blood thinning medication please make sure Dr Dawes and the rooms are aware of this. You will be provided with information regarding medication cessation at the time of surgery booking.
There are several other medications that may need to be ceased prior to surgery. If these are identified during consultation with Dr Dawes, you may be required to see a perioperative physician prior to surgery.
How long will my hospital stay be?
The duration varies depending on the procedure and your personal needs. On average:
- Brain tumour surgery: 3-5 days
- Brain aneurysm surgery: 3-5 days
- Brain AVM surgery: 5-7 days
- Cerebral bypass surgery: 3-5 days
- Microvascular decompression (trigeminal neuralgia): 2-3 days
- Microdiscectomy: 1-2 days
- Laminectomy: 2-5 days
- Anterior cervical fusion: 1-2 days
- Lumbar fusion: 2-5 days
- Carpal tunnel or ulnar nerve decompression: day case
Who will be involved in my care while in hospital?
Dr Dawes works in a multidisciplinary environment. He will see you regularly during your admission. A perioperative physician will also be involved in your care to oversee medication management and any other medical issues that may arise. Other specialists are available within the hospital if required.
A team of allied health professionals are available to assist in your recovery following surgery.
How will my pain be managed?
A post operative pain management regime will be decided upon by Dr Dawes, the anaesthetist and the perioperative physician in consultation with you.
When it’s time for discharge home, the hospital's pharmacist will provide you with the necessary medications.
What follow up appointments will be required after surgery?
There will be a post-operative appointment 4-6 weeks after surgery. You will be provided with these details when your surgery is booked. If you don’t have an appointment by your discharge date, please contact Dr Dawes's office to arrange this.
