Surgery Preparation
We understand that getting ready for an operation can feel daunting. Once you've made the decision to go ahead with your procedure, there are several key steps that need to take place before your surgery date. Below, we've outlined what you can expect to help you prepare in the lead-up to your operation.
Arranging Your Surgery Date
Before your surgery can be scheduled, approval is required from either ACC or your private health insurer.
ACC Patients
If your surgery is covered by ACC, our team will submit the application on your behalf. Most applications are processed within 3-4 weeks, though more complex cases may take longer. Once you've received confirmation that your surgery has been approved, please get in touch so we can arrange a suitable date with you.
Private Health Insurance
If you have private health insurance, your provider will need to approve your procedure before your surgery can be booked. You can lodge the claim yourself with your insurer - we'll provide all the documentation you need for this. Once approval comes through, we'll be able to schedule your surgery.
Self-Funded Surgery
If you're paying for your surgery yourself, we can provide you with an estimate, so you have a clear picture of the expected expenses before making your decision.
Where Will My Surgery Take Place?
Matthew operates out of North Shore Surgical Centre, Level 2, 213 Shakespeare Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0620.
Anaesthetic Assessment
If you're generally fit and healthy, you usually won't need a separate appointment with the anaesthetist before surgery. Instead, they’ll call you the week of your operation to discuss your anaesthetic and answer any questions you have. If you have significant medical conditions, your anaesthetist may arrange to see you beforehand. They may recommend additional tests, such as blood tests, heart investigations, or a review by another specialist, to make sure it's safe for you to proceed.
When Should I Stop My Blood-Thinning Medication Before Surgery?
If you take aspirin, you can usually continue taking it as normal before surgery. If you're on stronger blood-thinning medications – such as clopidogrel (Plavix), dabigatran (Pradaxa), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), or warfarin (Marevan) – these are generally stopped 5–7 days before your operation. Some patients will need temporary "bridging" treatment with a short-acting blood thinner, such as Clexane injections, during this period. If you are unsure what applies to you, please contact our team.
When Should I Stop Eating And Drinking Before Surgery?
If you're having your surgery under local anaesthetic, you don't need to fast beforehand.
If you're having a general anaesthetic, your stomach needs to be empty. You shouldn't eat any food for at least six hours before your operation – this includes drinks containing milk and even chewing gum. You may continue drinking small amounts of clear fluids, such as water or black coffee or tea, up until two hours before your surgery, unless you've been advised otherwise.
Should I Take My Regular Medication On The Morning Of Surgery?
Most regular medications should be taken as usual, with a small sip of water, on the morning of surgery. If you're taking blood-thinning medication, you may need to stop it before your operation (see above). Your anaesthetist will let you know if there any other medications you should pause before surgery.
How Long Will I Be In Hospital?
Most hand and wrist procedures are performed as day surgery, meaning you'll be able to go home the same day.
Do I Need Someone To Take Me Home After Surgery?
Yes. You won't be able to drive yourself home after your operation. If you're having day surgery, it usually takes around 2-4 hours to recover from your anaesthetic before you're ready to leave hospital. You'll need to arrange for a responsible adult to collect you, and you'll also need someone to stay with you overnight.
ACC patients who don't have someone available to collect them may arrange transport through ACC. This must be an assisted driving service (e.g. Driving Miss Daisy), unless a responsible adult is accompanying them. This must be organised by the patient directly.
