Preparing for Surgical Cancer Treatment

Surgery is just one of many modalities used to treat cancer. An oncologist will prepare you for this important procedure, and you should ask him or her questions about how best to get ready–both physically and mentally. Let’s talk about preparing for surgical cancer treatment and where you can go in Wooster, OH, for comprehensive cancer treatment.

Know The Details of Your Surgical Cancer Treatment

Health care providers call the process of pre-operative patient education “informed consent.” Informed consent tells you the surgery you will have, how it will address your cancer (take it out in part or its entirety), if it will relieve your symptoms, etc.

Your cancer doctor will explain the therapeutic benefits and the risks and side effects of your surgery. Also, you will understand what kind of anesthesia you’ll have–local, regional, twilight sedation, general anesthesia, or something else. Finally, you will sign a consent form, a legal document that indicates you understand the details of your procedure and willingly undergo it.

Undergo Complete Pre-op Testing

Most pre-op testing ensures you are healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. These tests include:

• X-rays and other kinds of imaging as needed (MRI, CT scan, and others)
• Blood tests and urine samples to check on blood glucose levels, complete blood count and more
• EKG to assess heart rhythm and health
• Chest x-ray to evaluate your lungs and chest cavity

You and your provider will review your health history, past surgeries, current medications, etc. You’ll be informed about what meds to stop, when, when, and how to do a bowel preparation if required and if you need physical therapy, weight loss, or tobacco cessation before your surgery.

Ask Questions About Your Recovery

Most cancer patients and their families have many questions about the recovery phase of their surgeries. You should ask your physician and/or the patient navigator provided to you about any concerns you have regarding:

• Pain control
• Wound care, including the presence of surgical drains
• Length of hospital stay
• Other cancer treatments you may need to supplement your surgery
• Structural changes to your body and if they are permanent or temporary
• Activity restrictions

Most patients also want to know when they can return to work, driving, and other activities of daily living. Your physician and care team will do all they can to answer your questions fully, so you have as much peace of mind as possible going into your surgery.

Comprehensive Cancer Care at Wooster Community Hospital

Our cancer treatment center is part of The James Cancer Network at Ohio State University. We proudly serve patients in Wayne County, OH, and its surrounding communities.

When it’s time for your surgical cancer treatment, we are here to guide you step by step through preparation, procedure, recovery, and long-term follow-up care. Don’t hesitate to contact the cancer center at (330) 262-2800 with any questions you may have.