What to Do Before Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?

by John Zaremba

Overview

Hernia surgery used to require a large incision and a long recovery time, but laparoscopic surgery has changed all that. In this increasingly common and less invasive procedure, the surgeon makes only a few small incisions and fixes the hernia with the help of a tiny video camera and a TV monitor in the operating room. Still, patients must take a few simple preparatory measures for the surgery to be a success.
Fast Before the Operation

Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your operation. Because the doctor will be operating on your intestines, it is important that your digestive system is clear for the operation. If you do eat something after midnight, tell your surgeon. It is better to reschedule the surgery.

Use an Enema If Necessary

Ensure that your bowels are clear. If you have trouble going to the bathroom, ask your surgeon in advance whether you should use an enema or other means to make sure your intestines are empty the day of the surgery.
Be Clean

Shower before surgery. Although laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, there is always a risk of infection. Showering either the night before or the morning of surgery helps reduce this risk.
About Medication

Tell your surgeon in advance about any medication you take. If you take medication daily, your surgeon may allow you to do so the morning of the surgery with a small sip of water. Some medications, including blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, may interfere with your operation. You may need to stop using them temporarily, and your surgeon will help you determine when to quit taking them and when you can start again.
Other Preparation

Take measures to ensure your safety and comfort during recovery. Hernia surgery is a great reason to quit smoking; coughing is extremely painful during recovery, so quitting in advance will help reduce that problem. Also, make sure you have someone to drive you home from the hospital and help you around the house for the next several days. Though your recovery should be speedy, you will need to spend most of that time off your feet.