Preparing for Surgery

How do you get to surgery?

You will need a referral from your local doctor, this is a medicare requirement.  You will see the surgeon at least twice to discuss options and suitability.  You will see a dietician and a may be asked to see a psychologist. Other investigations prior to surgery include a body composition scan and blood tests, and may also include radiological testing.

What do I do in the lead up to surgery?

• Please ensure you book into the hospital as soon as possible or at least 2 weeks before surgery - please see Online Admission links below.

• Ensure you have filled in and present the admission booklet to the hospital where you will be undergoing surgery, or that you have filled in the online admission via the hospital website at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. If you do an online admission you must take the consent form (in the booklet) with you on the day of surgery to the hospital.

• Ensure you have paid all pre-payments; surgeon, anaesthetist and assistant (if applicable)

• If your anaesthetist is Dr Eggleton you will need to have made an appointment to see him prior to surgery on (02) 4935 9300

• Attend dietitian appointment/s pre-surgery

• Complete Optifast or VLED diet (if applicable)

• Cease any medications you have been instructed to stop at our or the anaesthetist appointment (if any), if you are unsure, please call the nurse on (02) 4947 8177

• Pack your hospital bag 

Optifast

Two weeks before your surgery, you will start Optifast (a very-low calorie meal replacement) in order to shrink the size of your liver and make the surgery as safe as possible.  You will then be admitted to hospital on the morning of surgery.