Surgery Center & Hospital Directions
Please review the important details below to ensure a safe and smooth surgery experience. If you have any questions, our team is here to help.
Checklist
Pre-Surgery Checklist
Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming, but our team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Before your procedure, it’s important to complete a few essential steps to ensure you’re medically cleared, fully informed, and ready for a successful recovery.
Download the full Pre-Operative Clearance Instructions, and feel free to contact us with any questions you or your providers may have about your procedure or preparation.
Before Surgery
Schedule your pre-operative medical clearance appointment with your primary care provider as soon as possible.
If you are 50 years or older, your doctor will likely need to perform the following tests:
- Bloodwork (BMP and CBC)
- Chest X-ray (CXR)
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
If you have diabetes, your HbA1c level must be below 8 for elective surgery.
If you have a history of heart disease, your doctor may require cardiology clearance before proceeding.
If you take a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, or Mounjaro®, you must stop this at least 2 weeks before surgery, as it can interfere with anesthesia.
For elective joint replacement surgery, your BMI must be below 40 unless otherwise approved by your surgeon.
Medications & Pain Management
If you’re currently taking narcotic pain medications, speak with your pain management specialist. Your surgeon may defer prescribing narcotics post-surgery if you’re already under pain management care.
Your post-surgery medications will be sent to your preferred pharmacy in advance. Please confirm your pharmacy with our team before surgery.
The Night Before Surgery
Do NOT eat or drink anything after midnight, including:
Water
Gum
Candy
How to Find Our Surgery Centers
Helpful Answers Before Surgery
Can I drive myself home?
No. For your safety, you must have a responsible adult drive you home after surgery. Anesthesia and sedation can impair your judgment, reflexes, and coordination for several hours. We also recommend someone stays with you for at least 24 hours post-op to monitor your recovery.
What should I bring?
Please bring the following items on the day of your surgery:
- A valid photo ID
- Your insurance card
- A list of your current medications
- Any necessary pre-op paperwork
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (no jewelry or contact lenses)
Should I take my morning medications?
Only take medications that your surgeon or pre-op provider has approved. This often includes blood pressure or heart medications with a small sip of water. Do not take any medications unless explicitly instructed to do so. If you’re unsure, call our office to confirm what’s safe to take.
Can I wear deodorant, lotion, or makeup?
No. On the day of surgery, please do not apply any deodorant, lotion, powder, perfume, or makeup. These products can interfere with monitoring devices and surgical site cleanliness. Remove nail polish as well, so we can accurately monitor your circulation during the procedure.
Contact us
Let’s Get You Scheduled
Expert orthopedic surgery and sports medicine care for patients in Maryland. Our team is here to help you move your best whether you have joint pain or a sports injury
Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
301.681.3367
