Your child will have a pre-operative assessment. This is sometimes called a 'pre-op'. It will happen in the weeks before surgery.
This is to:
- carry out some tests and scans, such as blood tests, x-rays and CT scans
- make sure that your child is ready for surgery
- answer any questions that you may have
If your child is unwell
Tell the spinal team if your child is unwell or being treated for any illnesses. Some illnesses increase the risk of something going wrong during surgery.
Tell your child's nurse or doctors if your child has:
- acne
- a cough and cold
- a runny nose
- a high temperature
- a wheezy cough
- a chest infection
- chicken pox
- shingles
- diarrhoea or vomiting within 48 hours of surgery
- measles
- a urinary tract infection (UTI)
- head lice - talk to your pharmacist and start treatment immediately
Medicines your child may be on
Tell the spinal team if you child is taking:
- antibiotics
- any other medicines
- supplements
- any type of contraceptive pill
This is to ensure their safety during surgery.
Some contraceptives can increase the risk of blood clots during surgery. Your child's doctors can take steps to avoid this if they know.