What to Expect on the Day of Your Cancer Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide

December 10th, 2024

Written By: Oncology Simplified Team 

Disclaimer: This information is general and may not meet individual needs. For a personalized plan tailored to your unique lifestyle and clinical requirements, book a free introductory call at 437-500-5000.

Facing surgery can be overwhelming, especially when it's related to cancer. But knowing what to expect can help ease some of that anxiety and make the process feel more manageable. This guide walks you through the typical day of surgery, from the moment you wake up to when you head home or to your hospital room. 

Medications to Stop Before Surgery 

  • Vitamins, Supplements, Herbals, and Naturopathic Medications: Stop taking these 7 days before your surgery. 
  • Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA): Also known as Aspirin, you should stop taking this 7 days before your surgery, unless your healthcare team advises otherwise. 
  • Naproxen (Aleve) and Ibuprofen (Advil): These should also be discontinued 7 days before your procedure. 
  • Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions on when to stop these, depending on the type of medication you are taking. 

Smoking and Alcohol Before Your Surgery: 

  • Avoid smoking on the day of your surgery. To improve your recovery and overall surgical outcome, it's strongly recommended to stop smoking as early as possible before your surgery. This step can significantly aid in your healing process post-surgery.  
  • Avoid drinking alcohol: 24 hours before your surgery

Morning Preparation: Rise and Shine! 

The big day has arrived! You'll likely have to wake up early, especially if your surgery is scheduled for the morning. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions—nervousness, anticipation, or even relief that the day is finally here. Remember, these feelings are completely normal. Here are some general guidelines for all patients undergoing surgery: 

  • No Eating or Drinking: Most surgeries require you to fast, which means no food or drink for several hours before the procedure. Your healthcare team will give you specific instructions for when to stop eating and drinking. 
  • On the day of surgery, you may drink clear liquids like water, apple juice, or ginger ale up to four hours before your procedure, unless your healthcare team advises otherwise. For example, if your surgery is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., you can drink clear fluids until 7:00 a.m. 
  • Mouth Hygiene: You can brush your teeth on the morning of your surgery, but be careful not to swallow any water. 
  • Getting Ready: Wear comfortable, loose clothing. 
    • Remove any jewelry. 
    • Take off makeup and nail polish (including shellac, gel, or artificial nails). 
    • Remove tampons (use a sanitary pad if necessary). 
    • Take out body piercings. 
    • Remove contact lenses and don’t forget to bring your glasses for backup. 

You won't need any of these items during surgery, and it'll make things easier for the medical team.  

Tip: Bring a small bag with your essentials to help you feel comfortable and prepared. Here’s what you might want to include: 

  • Essentials: Phone, charger, a book, or anything else that helps you relax. 
  • Overnight Stay Items: Personal toiletries like a toothbrush, as well as comfy clothes. 
  • Important Documents: Ontario Health card (OHIP). 
  • Protective Cases: For eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures.
  • Footwear: Slippers or shoes with non-skid soles to ensure safety while walking. 

Arrival at the Hospital: Check-in and Pre-Op 

Once you arrive at the hospital, you'll check in at the surgical department. After that, the real preparation begins. 

  • You need to arrive 2 hours before your surgery or as instructed. 
  • The receptionist will register with your Ontario Health Card. 
  • Meeting Your Care Team: You'll meet with the nurses, anesthesiologist, and your surgeon. They will explain the procedure, confirm your details, and answer any last-minute questions you might have. 
  • Pre-Op Prep: The nurses will guide you to a pre-operative area where you'll change into a hospital gown. They will: 
  • Check your vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and breathing. 
  • Start an IV line for fluids and medication. 

One or two family members or essential care partners may be able to stay with you in the holding area before surgery. 

Tip: Don't hesitate to ask questions at this stage. If something is unclear or you're feeling anxious, let your care team know—they're there to support you. 

The Operating Room: Time for Surgery 

When it's time, you'll be taken to the operating room (OR). The environment might seem a little intimidating, with bright lights and various machines, but the medical team will make sure you're comfortable. 

  • Monitoring Your Vital Signs: A blood pressure cuff is placed on your arm, an oxygen monitor on your finger, and a heart monitor is placed on your chest. 
  • Anesthesia: You'll receive anesthesia to keep you asleep and pain-free during the surgery. The anesthesiologist will monitor you closely throughout the procedure. 
  • The Surgery: While you're under anesthesia, your surgeon will perform the operation. Depending on the type of surgery, this could take a few hours. During this time, your loved ones can wait in the designated area where they can receive updates from the staff. 

Tip: Before you're taken to the OR, remind your loved ones about the waiting area. It can be comforting to know they’ll be updated regularly. 

Post-Surgery: Waking Up and Recovery 

After the surgery, you'll be moved to the recovery room where you'll wake up from the anesthesia. 

  • Recovery Room: Nurses will monitor your vital signs and ensure you're waking up safely. It's normal to feel groggy or a bit disoriented at first. 
  • Pain Management: If you experience pain or discomfort, the nurses will provide medication to help manage it. Don't hesitate to speak up if you're in pain—your comfort is a priority. 
  • Talking to Your Surgeon: Once you're fully awake, your surgeon will give you an update on how the surgery went. They’ll explain what was done and what the next steps are. 

Tip: Write down any questions you or your loved ones might have for the surgeon. It's easy to forget them when you're waking up from anesthesia. 

Heading Home or to Your Hospital Room 

Depending on the type of surgery, you might go home the same day, or you might need to stay in the hospital for a night or two. 

  • Discharge Instructions: If you're going home, the care team will provide detailed instructions on how to care for yourself during recovery. This might include how to manage pain, care for incisions, and any activity restrictions. 
  • Hospital Stay: If you're staying overnight, you'll be taken to a hospital room where you can rest and recover. Nurses will continue to monitor you and provide care as needed. 

Tip: Make sure you have a loved one with you who can help you get home and settle in comfortably. It's important to have support during your recovery. 

Conclusion 

Understanding what to expect on the day of your surgery can help reduce some of the anxiety that naturally comes with the experience. Remember, your healthcare team is there to guide and support you every step of the way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or express any concerns you have—they’re there to help you through this journey. 

Questions You Might Want to Ask Before Your Cancer Surgery 

  1. What are my choices for getting rid of the cancer? Which type of surgery do you suggest? 
  2. Is surgery an option for me (or my child) to treat this cancer? 
  3. What’s the name of this surgery? How do you spell it correctly? 
  4. How will the surgery be performed? 
  5. What kind of anesthesia will be used to keep me comfortable? 
  6. Will I need a blood transfusion during the surgery? 
  7. Will any lymph nodes be taken out during this surgery? If yes, why is that? 
  8. How long will the surgery take? 
  9. What are the pros and cons of going through this surgery? 
  10. What are the possible risks or complications I should be aware of? 
  11. What will my recovery look like, and how long will it take? 
  12. Will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery? If so, for how long? 
  13. Are there any special preparations I need to make before the surgery? 
  14. How will this surgery affect my daily life, both in the short and long term? 
  15. Will I need follow-up treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation, after the surgery? 
  16. Who can I contact if I have concerns or questions after the surgery? 

This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical nutrition therapy, medical advice, or a diagnosis. It is not a substitute for professional consultation or recommendations from your healthcare provider. 

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