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There are actions that you can take prior to surgery to
improve your recovery time and decrease your risk of complications.
Most men find their recovery is less complicated if they
are in good physical condition, not overweight, and don't
smoke. If you are not an active person, beginning an exercise
program such as walking for thirty minutes daily. This can
greatly improve the recovery process.
Kegels are pelvic muscle exercises that have proven beneficial
in reducing incontinence following radical prostatectomy.
They should be started prior to the surgery, and continue
after the catheter has been removed. To locate the correct
pelvic muscle, imagine you are trying to hold back
from having a bowel movement. Squeeze the muscles, hold
for 5-10 seconds, and relax. Repeat this 10 times four times
a day. Dont forget to breath, and keep your stomach
and buttock muscles relaxed. If you arent sure you are contracting
the correct muscles, touch the opening at the rectum. If
you feel the opening contract at the same time you tighten
the muscle, you are doing the exercise correctly. |
Before undergoing surgery you may be required to attend
a pre-admission session at your hospital. At this time you
will meet your anaesthetist, to discuss your medical history,
including any allergies you may have and any prescription
or non-prescription drugs that you are taking.
A nurse coordinator will provide you with general information
concerning your hospital stay, perform any additional exams
(such as blood tests) that may be required, and answer any
questions that you have.The hospital staff will also explain
the admissions procedure to you, including any food and
drink restrictions that may apply before your surgery.
You may be given the opportunity to make a blood donation
before surgery, so that in the event that you should need
a transfusion during or following surgery, your own blood
will be used. This is known as an "autologous donation".
Your doctor may request that you not eat anything the day
before surgery and not drink anything after midnight. You
may also be required to take a laxative the evening before
surgery and use an enema the morning of surgery to assure
that your bowel is clear. |
