Surgery
At TidalHealth, our surgery team works closely with your physician to provide timely surgical care tailored to your needs. By combining new treatments with advanced technology and fast-acting anesthetics, we aim to help you recover more quickly and comfortably so you can return home as soon as possible.
We offer a range of minimally invasive procedures, including robotic surgery using the daVinci Surgical Robot and laparoscopic techniques. These minimally invasive approaches often require only small incisions, which can mean less pain and a quicker recovery for you.
Our caring staff is dedicated to making your experience as personal and pleasant as possible. We believe a warm environment, a safe setting, and genuine smiles help you feel more at ease throughout your time with us.
Our Approach to Surgery
Your physician will talk with you about your surgery, discuss any risks and benefits, and help you prepare for your treatment. After surgery is scheduled, you will fill out a pre-anesthesia questionnaire, which one of our pre-admission nurses will review with you a few days before your procedure. We encourage you to share any questions, concerns, or important health details at this time so we can best support you.
On the day of your surgery, a staff member will help you prepare and answer any last-minute questions. Our team will be with you every step of the way, prioritizing your comfort, safety, and peace of mind. After your procedure, we will continue to monitor your recovery and give you the information you need for care at home.
Types of Surgery We Offer
We perform a variety of surgical procedures for our community, using minimally invasive methods whenever possible. These include:
- General surgery procedures such as appendectomy, biopsies, hernia repair, and wound care
- Specialty surgeries, including bariatric (weight loss), ear, nose and throat, gynecology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, urology, and more
- Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery
TidalHealth has long been a leader in minimally invasive surgery in the region. Our use of advanced equipment, including the daVinci system, allows our surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater accuracy and smaller incisions. Minimally invasive surgery often means less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to the things you enjoy. Each year, thousands of laparoscopic and robotic surgeries are performed across multiple specialties by our skilled team.
How do I prepare for my surgery?
Your physician will go over your surgery details at an office visit, discussing the risks, benefits, and alternatives. Once you and your physician decide on surgery, our team will help schedule your procedure. You will fill out a pre-anesthesia questionnaire, which a pre-admission nurse will review with you a few days before your surgery. Please let us know about any health or anesthesia concerns and share all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies. Our staff is here to answer your questions and help you feel comfortable about all aspects of your care.
What happens on the day of surgery?
When you arrive, our staff will help you change into a hospital gown and secure your belongings. A nurse will ask you about your medical history and current medications, and then start an IV for medications and fluids. For your safety, you will wear an ID band and may be asked the same questions more than once for verification. Your surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nurse anesthetist will visit you before surgery to review any last questions and confirm your surgical site. You will be monitored closely for heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs during your procedure. Sometimes, depending on your surgery and recovery, your surgeon may recommend you stay in the hospital for extra care.
What should I remember for surgery day?
- Bring two forms of identification, including a photo ID, and your health insurance card.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery unless instructed otherwise. Children should not have bottles after midnight unless told otherwise.
- Avoid taking medications unless told to do so by your care team. Only take sips of water if necessary.
- No alcoholic drinks for 24 hours before surgery.
- Do not wear jewelry, body piercings, or nail polish, and do not bring valuables. Please shower or bathe, but avoid creams or lotions on your skin.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on after surgery.
What should I expect after surgery?
After your procedure, you will be cared for in a recovery area where your blood pressure and pain will be monitored. Our team will give medication and comfort measures to help with pain. If you need to stay longer or be admitted, a nursing team will take care of you. Before you go home, your nurse will review your home care instructions with you and your designated support person to help you feel confident about recovery at home.
What should I know about recovery at home?
- Avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours after surgery or as long as you are taking pain medications.
- Do not make important decisions or drink alcohol for 24 hours after surgery. Never mix pain medication and alcohol.
- Take pain medicines as directed and follow all home care instructions provided by your care team.
