Surgery Checklist

Before Surgery

  • Medical clearance may be required prior to your surgery by your Primary Care Physician and/or Anesthesia. Please discuss at that time what medications should be taken morning of surgery.
  • Please alert Dr. Taylor’s staff with any changes or updates in your medical history specifically if you have had a blood clot, MRSA, obstructive sleep apnea, chest pain, hepatitis, high blood pressure, diabetes, alcohol use, nicotine abuse, performance enhancement drugs, growth hormone, steroids, recreational drug use.
  • Please alert Dr. Taylor’s staff if you are experiencing fever, chills, sinus drainage, flu or cold like symptoms prior to your scheduled surgery.
  • Use Hibiclens soap on affected area prior to your surgery date. The Taylor Spine Team will clarify the date you need to begin this process (see handout). If your surgery is at the hospital, a bottle of hibiclens may be provided for use over your entire body in addition to our requirements.
  • STOP taking ibuprofen, aspirin and all herbal medications 14 days prior to surgery.
  • Dr. Taylor strongly encourages patients to wean off narcotics prior to surgery for the best post-operative pain management.
  • The hospital or surgery center will call you the day before surgery to give you an arrival time. Expect to arrive 2 hours prior to your surgery time.
  • You should consider staying in the area after surgery if you live a considerable distance.
  • If you have any FMLA or work related paperwork, please provide these to our medical record department at The Orthopedic Center of St. Louis. Please be advised that there is a fee for completing paperwork.

Day of Surgery

  • Nothing to eat or drink after midnight- no gum or mints. You may brush your teeth, take a shower and wear deodorant.
  • Please remove all jewelry, including rings, earrings and piercings prior to coming to the hospital.
  • Please have a family member remain in the waiting area until Dr. Taylor speaks with them. Dr. Taylor may talk with them prior to and after surgery. Please provide a cell phone number to Jennifer to ensure we can contact your family during your surgery.
  • Hospitalized patients may receive a visit from social service for discharge planning regarding home health care. Please be aware that these arrangements are for the patient’s safety and success of the procedure. Our priority is to provide the best care to the patient before, during and after the procedure.