I am told I need surgery. What next?

Kamie will contact your insurance carrier to obtain pre-authorization or approval for the recommended surgery if this is required for your procedure.

• Kamie will contact you to schedule a date for surgery after she has obtained pre-authorization or approval.
• The surgery center or hospital staff will call you to confirm the time of your surgery, usually the day before surgery.
• The surgery center or hospital staff will also call you to verify your medical history.

If you are over 50 years of age or have certain medical conditions like diabetes or heart/lung disease, you will need to make an appointment with your primary care provider (PCP) to have a thorough preoperative evaluation. This will include an EKG to assess your heart and and some basic blood work. The evaluation must be completed within 30 days of the surgery date and preferably at least two weeks before surgery. If you have any underlying heart condition, a cardiology evaluation may be warranted, but this will be determined by your PCP. This preoperative evaluation is needed to assess your cardiovascular risk for surgery and to ensure you are healthy enough to undergo general anesthesia.

The week prior to your scheduled surgery, you will be re-evaluated by Dr. Faulkner and Cara at a preoperative appointment. At this appointment several things will be accomplished.

• A pain medication prescription for postoperative pain will be provided. The instructions for use will be reviewed with you.
• A blood thinner may be prescribed to prevent a blood clot from forming in your legs. This will depend on the type of surgery you will have and your health history.
• A video regarding the risks and side effects of narcotic use will be watched to ensure that you understand the expectations and goals for your postop pain management.
• If you are having a total shoulder arthroplasty, we will ask you to fill out a questionnaire on our iPad so we can track your progress.
• Any equipment such as a sling or knee brace will be fit and provided to you. Please bring these items to surgery.
• A reminder card with your scheduled postop appointment card will be provided. Your first postop appointment will be 10-14 days after surgery.
• A prescription for physical therapy will be provided so that you may schedule those appointments at the recommended time after surgery. Dr. Faulkner and Cara will discuss the timing for starting physical therapy after surgery as this depends on the type of surgery you have.
• You will sign the consent form for surgery.
• All questions will be answered.