Your doctor has very specific reasons behind the instructions given before a medical procedure or test-to ensure safety and accuracy. Here's the logic behind the instructions you'll likely be given when you need to undergo standard screenings or surgeries:
- Eat a liquid diet and take a laxative before a colonoscopy. The day before your colonoscopy, your physician will ask you to stick to clear liquids and avoid fruit, cream, and foods with red or purple dye. You'll also need to drink a laxative mixture to clean your colon. This bowel prep is one of the most infamous parts of a colonoscopy - it's also one of the most important. If you don't drink the liquid as recommended, your doctor may not be able to see the condition of your colon and rectum clearly. You don't want physicians to miss potentially cancer-causing polyps and tumors and increase the risk of complications.
- Fast before a diagnostic procedure or surgery. If you're having surgery, you will likely be unable to eat or drink after midnight before your procedure, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Fasting before surgery helps reduce the risk of a potentially life-threatening complication called aspiration, which can occur when food from your stomach flow backward into your airway and lungs while under anesthesia.
- Skip antiperspirant/deodorant application before your mammogram. According to the American Cancer Society, wearing either can interfere with the quality of images taken during your study.
- Have a friend or relative drive you home after minor same-day procedures. The anesthesia or sedatives that keep you comfortable may affect your driving ability.
To learn more about surgical options or for questions contact, Garvey Choi, DO, or Troy Kerner, DO at (215) 891-1430 or visit www.lowerbuckshosp.com/our-services/surgical-services