How to Prepare for IV Sedation Surgery


oral-surgery-fears-300x199Many oral surgeries require a sedation method in order to make a patient feel as comfortable as possible during the procedure. Austin Oral Surgery offers four different sedation methods, two of which are administered through an IV. Sedation methods that are administered through an IV require a patient to prepare a little more than the methods that are not administered through an IV.

What to Do Before IV Sedation

First and foremost, you cannot eat or drink anything, not even water, for 8 hours before your surgery. An empty stomach is necessary for a person going under anesthesia. You are allowed to brush your teeth in the morning, before your surgery, if you do not swallow any water at all. If you accidentally eat or drink the morning of your surgery, it may be rescheduled for another day.

You may only drink water if you have to take medication. Any needed medication should be taken without food and the smallest amount of water necessary to swallow them.

Smoking and drinking can also affect a surgery, so it is important to remember not to consume any alcohol 24 hours prior to the surgery. Smoking is prohibited for 12 hours before the procedure, but it is recommended that the patient try to stop smoking prior to the surgery.

Another important thing to remember about sedation surgery is that it requires for you to arrange for a capable adult to be your escort the day of the surgery. Sedatives typically take a while to leave your system, therefore you will not be able to transport yourself home. Your escort will be expected to wait in the waiting room for you and be with you for your duration in the recovery room. If the patient is under 18, a parent or guardian must be present, or a specific consent form is usually required.

The patient must wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that are safe and comfortable (i.e., flat shoes that have a back). This is due to the patient possibly needing to walk after the procedure. It is also recommended that nail polish be removed. Contact lenses should not be worn during the procedure.

Lastly, if you are experiencing any symptoms on the day of the surgery including: a cough, cold symptoms, nasal/chest congestion, or any illness that upsets your stomach or bowels, alert your doctor immediately.

After The Procedure

After the procedure, do not operate a vehicle or use heavy machinery until the day after surgery. Bed rest until fully awake is recommended.

If you have any other questions regarding preparation for a sedation surgery, contact Austin Oral Surgery today!