What to Expect

To schedule your appointment at Florida Spine Associates, please call (561) 495-9511 or request an appointment online.

Now that you’ve decided to have surgery, what next? 

• Plan your visit to The Spine Center at Boca Raton, FL.
• Contact your insurance company. Many insurance companies require preauthorization for hospital admissions. Also be sure that we have your most current and complete insurance information. 
• Compile a list of all prescribed and over-the-counter medications you take, including dosage and strength. Bring it with you on all your visits.
• If appropriate, prepare your Advanced Directives with instructions about who should oversee your medical treatment in case you’re unable to speak for yourself. Advanced directives include a Health Care Power of Attorney and a Living Will. 
• Arrange for a person to drive you home after your surgery or accompany you on public transportation. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home after same-day surgery.
• Designate a person responsible for your care who can listen to the Surgeon’s recommendations, stay with you for 24 hours after surgery and accompany you to your first post-operative appointment..
• If you smoke, stop smoking immediately to reduce your risk of respiratory and anesthesia complications after your operation.

Do’s and Don’ts

Before surgery, routine testing needs to be done, such as blood tests, chest X-rays or electrocardiograms (EKG). This should be arranged through your Primary Care Physician  (PCP). Once you have the okay for surgery by both your PCP and your insurance company, be sure to adhere to the following guidelines prior to, and on the day of, surgery:

Feeling Ill?

• If you develop a cold, persistent cough, sore throat, fever or any other illness within two days of surgery, notify your Surgeon immediately.

 Crutches

• Obtain ambulatory aides such as crutches or knee rollators before surgery; practice using them before surgery. These can be obtained through our office.  

Medication, Anesthesia

• You will be instructed in advance as to which of your routine medications you should take on the day of your surgery. Let us know if you have any special concerns and/or issues with anesthesia.

Food/Drink

• Do not drink alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery.
• You can drink up to 8 ounces of clear liquids up to 2 hours before your arrival time.
• Do not eat or drink anything (including gum, mints or candy) two hours before your arrival time. You may brush your teeth on the day of surgery.

Documents

• Bring a photo ID, insurance information and copay (if applicable) on the day of surgery.

Clothing, Jewelry, Valuables

• On the day of surgery, wear loose-fitting clothing and low-heeled shoes. If staying overnight, a bathrobe and slippers are suggested. Leave all valuables including jewelry, money and credit cards at home.
• Remove all piercings.
• Avoid the use of hair clips, pins and bands that bind your hair. Do not use hairspray. 
• Remove all nail polish. To ensure accurate monitoring of oxygen levels during surgery, remove tips, wraps, gels, etc. from at least one finger on each hand.
• Do not wear makeup or perfume.
• Do not make any marks on your skin to indicate the surgical site. Your physician along with your participation will mark the surgical site prior to your surgery.

 Glasses/Contacts

• You may wear hearing aids on the day of surgery.
• Bring your contact lens and solution and/or glasses case.