Same Day Pre-Op

We began our day in MRI. NS wanted an up to date image to view just before surgery. All went well and smoothly. Rad Techs were both wonderful. 

Once done in the Imaging Dept, we proceeded to the surgery waiting room and finished registration. This is where G's entourage met us. Close family and friends were waiting to send her off on a positive note. Everyone was able to spend about 45 minutes before we were called back to the pre op area.

Once back, vitals were taken and lots of medical history was confirmed. We spent a total of 2 hrs in this area. G was wiped down with Chlorhexidine wipes which decreases microbes on the body. Then she changed into a gown.  This is when the stream of docs began. 

A total of 4 anesthesiology providers came in to discuss the procedure. G will have a neuro monitoring system which requires 2 anesthesiologists. One at the bedside and the another at a monitoring station. This is such a cool aspect of this facility. There is also a pain team that rounds after surgery to ensure pain is tolerable. 

G was given an oral relaxing med to help with anxiety before the procedure. This begins working quickly. She was loopy within 5 minutes and did not care about much else. Our NS met with us briefly before taking her back for any last minute questions and to give another quick overview of the procedure.

The walk to the OR was one of the longest, emotionally speaking, of my life. Each OR nurse came out to meet us and reassured us that she is in great hands. We gave hugs and kisses and G was off to the races. I think it helped me knowing that she was relaxed going into the procedure.

First update came almost 2 hours after she was taken back. Incision time was 4:17 and now we wait for further updates throughout surgery.