Patient-s-Guide-to-Spine-Surgery-V1

Preparing for Surgery

Advance Directive Mercy supports and complies with our patients’ advance directives. Please bring a copy of your Living Will and/or Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care for your medical records. If you do not have an advance directive, and would like information on creating one, ask your surgeon’s office or visit www.mercyhospital.org/For- Patients-Visitors/Advance-Directives.aspx to obtain one. Nutrition Eat healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. If your doctor has recommended you lose weight, it is very important that you do the best you can to do this. Extra weight increases your risk of complications after surgery. Stop Smoking Before your surgery, it is very important to quit smoking. Smoking not only increases your risk of lung problems after surgery but also hinders healing. In some instances, your surgeon may choose not to operate if you continue to smoke. If you need assistance, please call the Maine Tobacco Helpline at 1-800-207-1230 . This free, confidential service has proven highly successful for many people.