PREPARING FOR SURGERY
What to Expect Before, On, and After the Day of Surgery
At the heart of my practice is Shared Decision-Making. Whether we pursue conservative management (Plan A) or surgical intervention (Plan B), the goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and functional goals.
This leaflet provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice.
Before Your Surgery
Insurance & Authorisation
- Tell your insurer about the planned surgery, using the procedure code from Prof. Singh
- Your insurer issues an authorisation code
- Share that code with the office so your booking can be confirmed
Pre-Assessment
- You may need an MRSA swab or a full pre-operative assessment
- Major procedures (e.g. joint replacement) usually need a visit 1–2 weeks before
- This can include blood tests, an ECG and routine checks
Medications
- Continue your usual medications unless told otherwise
- Tell the team about blood thinners, such as Warfarin, Clopidogrel, Apixaban or rivaroxaban
- This helps avoid delays or cancellations
On the Day of Surgery
Arrival at Hospital
- Arrive up to 4 hours before your surgery time — you will be advised of the time
- Before you arrive: remove jewellery and piercings, remove contact lenses, and avoid make-up or nail varnish
Fasting (“Nil by Mouth”)
- Follow the fasting instructions carefully — this includes chewing gum
- Morning admission: no food after midnight; water until 6:00am
- Midday admission: no food after 6:00am; water until 10:00am
- Afternoon admission: no food after 10:00am; water up to 2 hours before arrival
Before Surgery
- Prof. Singh confirms the procedure, answers questions and marks the site
- The anaesthetist discusses your anaesthetic and may offer a nerve block for pain relief
- A therapist may explain early exercises and sling use
Going to Theatre
- Safety checks confirm your identity, the procedure and the side
- You will walk or be taken by wheelchair, as you prefer
- Anaesthesia and surgery then proceed as planned
After Surgery
Recovery Area
- You are monitored closely as you wake up
- Pain relief and comfort are checked regularly
- Once stable and comfortable, you return to your room
- An X-ray may be taken if needed
Before Discharge
- Your pain is well controlled and you are comfortable, hydrated and mobile
- Arrange for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours
- You receive wound care, physiotherapy advice and follow-up details
Quick Checklist
- Authorisation code shared with the office
- Pre-assessment completed; blood thinners declared
- Fasting instructions understood
- Someone to take you home and stay for 24 hours