A. If you are not already an exerciser, it may not be wise to start on an intense, vigorous exercise program right before you are scheduled for a procedure. Instead, it may be better to get in touch with a physical therapist to start making plans for your recovery and for a safe, progressive exercise program afterward.

If you have four to six weeks of lead time prior to surgery, get started on a program to strengthen your core muscles (abdominal and back) muscles. The best tool for this is the Fitball®. You can use the Fitball® for crunches or as your bench while strength training.

Speaking of the cardiovascular system, it is a good idea to get into a consistent program of “huffing and puffing” as far in advance of your scheduled surgery as possible. This will not only put your entire vascular system into better shape, thus allowing oxygen and other essential nutrients more efficient access to your abdominal area, it will also reduce excess body fat. Again, your physician, surgeon and anesthesiologist (if possible) should be apprised of your activities.

Some physical pursuits — like swimming, bicycling and walking — may be preferable to others as far as your particular surgery is concerned.

Another important preoperative area that needs to be addressed is the issue of supplements and herbs. Your doctor MUST be given a list of EVERYTHING that you take, regardless of how innocuous you think it might be. Too many people think that since herbs are “just” plants and vitamins are “sort of like food,” their use is benign when it comes to the effect on a surgical procedure. Start making the list about four weeks away from your operation, and hand this list to your doctor at least two weeks before surgery.

Why? Because many of these items, taken in combination, can have cumulative effects on important factors like blood clotting. Ginkgo biloba, ginger, garlic, vitamin E, aspirin and ibuprofen are all blood thinners that could play havoc with clotting time (Acetaminophen is not a blood thinner.). Kava kava, if in your system in conjunction with the sedatives used by the anesthesiologist, can cause a deeper sedative effect than desired by the surgeon. Licorice can neutralize antibiotics. Ginseng can cause hypertension, clotting problems, unexpected hypoglycemia or ECG changes.

“Patients today often self-diagnose and treat themselves after hearing about herbs and over-the-counter (OTC) medications from word-of-mouth and through the media,” writes registered nurse Cindy Brumley in the November 2000 AORN Journal (Vol. 72, No. 5).

“This can mask or complicate serious illnesses and delay treatment. Herbal remedies do not work like prescription or OTC medicines.”

Take no chances on the success of your surgical experience. Prepare your body and your physician to ensure the best outcome.

Note: I would like to thank registered nurse Helen S. Pashley for her assistance in the writing of this article.

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