Hartford Specialists - Education - Preparation For Abdominal Surgery

Preparation For Abdominal Surgery

It has been well-demonstrated over the years that surgery which is performed on an intestine that has been cleansed prior to the operation has a markedly decreased number of complications associated with it. Specifically, the most common postoperative problem that arises after intestinal surgery is due to an infection. Whereas 30 years ago infections developed in almost one out of every two people that underwent intestinal surgery, with modern technique of bowel cleansing, the infection rate presently is usually less than 1 in every 20 people. The intestines are cleansed with both purgatives, as well as antibiotics in order to minimize the chance for infection. Be sure to obtain antibiotic prescriptions from your surgeon.

PREPARATION FOR ABDOMINAL SURGERY:

Breakfast Only:

Purchase:

238 gram bottle of Miralax
Crystal Light or Gatorade (Excluding Red Flavor)

Mix:       Mix the 238 grams of Miralax with 64 ounces of Crystal Light or
              Gatorade.

Time:    9:30am Begin Clear liquid diet until bedtime.
               Start your prep anytime between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Drink 8oz of
               Miralax every 30 minutes until finished with the 64 ounces.
               (The earlier you start your prep the earlier you'll be done)

You may have Breakfast________before 9:30 am. Following breakfast you will then begin the clear liquid diet.

You are not to use aspirin, iron compounds, blood thinners, or vitamin E (400 units or greater) for one week before your procedure. This is to help decrease bleeding that may occur if a biopsy is taken. Please let your PCP know if you are temporarily discontinuing this medication. Talk to your PCP about adjusting the does of oral hypoglycemics and insulin the night before and day of the procedure. All other regularly scheduled medications can be taken, i.e.: high blood pressure and cardiac medications.

NO FOOD OR DIRNK AFTER MIDNIGHT

If you have any questions concerning the instructions or any problems completing the preparation, please call the office at (860) 548-7336 so that we may assist you.