How do we prepare for the surgery?
Start by ensuring your child has a good understanding of the procedure, in a way that’s appropriate for their age. Follow any specific instructions given by your surgeon, which may include fasting guidelines (no food or drink for a certain period before surgery), medication adjustments, and bathing instructions. Also, prepare a bag with essentials for the day of the surgery, such as ID, insurance information, comfort items for your child, and any required paperwork.
When will I know what time my surgery is scheduled?
The time surgeries are scheduled are determined by the OR the day prior, typically in the evening. You will be contacted by the hospital directly to go over your projected surgery time as well as when to arrive at check-in.
What should my child wear on the day of the surgery?
Dress your child in loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and put on after the surgery. Avoid any clothing with metal fasteners or jewelry. If your child wears glasses, contacts, or hearing aids, bring a case for these items as they will need to be removed before surgery.
Can my child eat or drink before surgery?
Your child should not eat any solid food after midnight the night before the surgery. Clear liquids might be allowed up to a certain hour before arrival at the clinic, but this can vary based on the age of the child and the type of procedure. Always follow the specific fasting instructions provided by your clinic to avoid surgery delays or cancellations.
What paperwork should I bring?
Please be sure to bring your child’s health insurance card, a photo ID, and legal guardianship documents if applicable. If your child has a medical history or special needs, bring relevant medical records or a list of current medications.
How is pain managed after surgery?
After surgery, your child is likely to be prescribed an opioid (narcotic) pain medication to help manage their pain. The goal of pain management isn’t to take away the pain completely, but to reduce your child’s pain enough that their body and mind can focus on healing. It is typical for your child to use things such as heat/ice therapy along with narcotics.
When can my child return to school or daycare?
The timing for returning to school or daycare depends on the type of surgery and your child’s recovery. Your surgeon will provide guidelines based on the procedure’s specifics and your child’s progress during follow-up visits.
What are the signs of complications I should watch for after we go home?
Be alert for signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or drainage at the surgery site), fever, unexpected pain, difficulty breathing, or any reaction to medication. Contact your clinic immediately at (435)655-6606 if you notice any of these symptoms. Please also forward images to our team email (toppedsortho@toportho.com) to help the clinical team assess the severity of the patient’s wound/rash.
How do we manage follow-up care?
Depending on what surgery your child undergoes will dictate a follow-up appointment as directed by your surgeon, typically within a week or two after surgery. The clinical team will call you to schedule your post op appointment.
