How to Prepare for Pancreatic Surgery

Pancreatic surgery is performed primarily for removing pancreatic cancer. Preparation for the surgery may be difficult but is absolutely necessary for a smooth surgery and a successful recovery. In addition to preparing for the surgery, you must prepare for post-surgical recuperation and make the necessary arrangements to recover fully. If you are fully prepared for surgery before it happens, you will be more relaxed going into the surgery.

Instructions

• 1

  Get your preoperative testing done one to two weeks before surgery. You must have a complete blood count, a metabolic panel, an EKG if you are 40 years and older, and a chest x-ray if you are 60 years and older.

• 2

  Schedule a preoperative evaluation one week prior to surgery. At this time a nurse practitioner (NP) will go over all preoperative instructions and medical history. The NP will then tell you which medications to stop taking and which foods to avoid.

• 3

  Make arrangements for your job if you are working. Let your boss know that you will be out for one to two months for recovery and fill out any disability forms needed.

• 4

  Make sure you have all financial items figured out. Call your insurance company and double check that the surgery is covered. Make hospital arrangements by deciding whether you would like to stay in a normal hospital room (typically a double), or a private room, which has more flexibility.

• 5

  Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. This prepares your body for anesthesia. You may still take vital medications for diabetes, seizures, asthma and blood pressure.

• 6

  Have everything ready on the day of your surgery. Make sure you have your insurance card and all other things you may need. Bring a loved one for support and find a way to feel relaxed and peaceful. Listen to a CD and practice steady breathing to relax your body and bolster your immune system.