How to Prepare for Abdominal Surgery

Abdominal surgery can be required for a variety of conditions. Ulcerative colitis, hysterectomy, mini tummy tuck, appendix, gallbladder removal and many other medical conditions may require surgical intervention. The most common abdominal surgeries are an exploratory laparotomy (to explore the abdominal cavity), laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery) and open incision.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Surgeon
• Pain medication

Review Abdominal Surgery Preparation

1. Understand the reason for abdominal surgery. The type of surgery will determine the best way to prepare for the hospital stay. If it is a laproscopic procedure, you'll likely go home the day of surgery. This involves inserting a laproscope through a tiny hole in the abdomen to perform the procedure. It is a common practice for surgeries such as gallbladder, appendix or hernia repair.

2. Prepare to stay overnight or longer if an open incision is required. This involves cutting through the skin and muscle layers to reach the organs inside the abdomen. This type of surgery may be required to perform a hysterectomy, colonectomy or any procedure that is not possible through a laproscope.

3. Plan ahead to have someone drive you home if you have inpatient or outpatient abdominal surgery. In addition, plan to have help for a few days after you are discharged.

4. Expect to do bowel preparation for just about any type of abdominal surgery. This usually involves a strict liquid diet for 2 days, laxatives as directed and an enema. This is necessary because the colon is paralyzed during general anesthesia, and it makes it easier for recovery to have an empty colon.

5. Prepare ahead for time away from normal activities. Make sure your bills are paid, pets are cared for and arrangements are made for childcare, if needed. Stock up the cabinet and fridge with easy-to-prepare meals for when you come back home.

6. Ask your doctor about the risks and possible complications from abdominal surgery. Prepare a list to keep handy for yourself or your caregiver to know when to call your doctor.

7. Take measures to control the pain prior to surgical intervention. Ask your doctor for pain management to allow as much rest as possible in preparation for surgery.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your doctor which over-the-counter pain medication will likely be used, and have a supply on hand prior to surgery.
• Make sure your insurance company approves the surgery before you're admitted. Some carriers require this, and payment may be denied if the requirement is not met.
• Follow your doctor's pre-op orders strictly. Failure to do so may inhibit your chances for a successful surgery.
• Understand that some abdominal surgeries are an emergency and there is no time to prepare in the case of an accident or trauma, abdominal aneurysm or other unexpected event.

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