Before surgery

This section covers some of the things to consider before your colon and rectal surgery.

Before your surgery

• Review this Understanding Your Colon or Rectal surgery section of this website or order the print manual to read.
• Schedule your health history and physical exam.
• Fill out the insurance coverage worksheet. Be sure to call your insurance provider with any questions.
• Make a list of all your current medicines. You can use the My Medicine List.
• Talk with your family and friends about your care needs after surgery. Learn more about discharge planning.

Night before your surgery

• Use the Sage 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Cloths to cleanse your skin the night before your surgery.
• You will be given a nutritional supplement to drink before your surgery. Read more about what to expect on the day of your surgery.

After your surgery

• Walk at least one time on the day of your surgery.
• Take your anti-nausea medicine to help prevent nausea. Read more about what to expect after surgery.
• Start taking your nutritional supplements the day after surgery to help you heal.