Frequently Asked Questions About Surgery and Vascular Procedures

Review Your Medications

Two weeks before surgery, make a complete list of all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. Some—like blood thinners (warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin), herbal supplements, or anti-inflammatory drugs—can increase bleeding risk. Your vascular surgeon or anesthesiologist will tell you which medications to stop or adjust. Never stop taking prescriptions on your own.

Health Optimization

Patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease should aim for the best possible control before surgery. Maintaining stable blood sugar and blood pressure reduces complications and supports wound healing.

Lifestyle Preparation

Stop smoking. Nicotine reduces oxygen in the blood and slows healing. Quitting even a few weeks before surgery improves outcomes.

Eat well and stay hydrated. A balanced diet supports tissue repair. Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before the procedure.

Stay active. Light activity (like walking) helps circulation, unless your doctor advises rest.

Pre-Operative Testing

Depending on your health, your SVSA care team may order blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), ultrasound imaging, or other assessments. These tests confirm that your body is ready for anesthesia and identify any conditions that need attention.

Plan Ahead

• Arrange for transportation home if you’re having outpatient surgery.
• Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
• If your procedure requires an overnight stay, bring only essentials—ID, insurance card, medication list, and personal items.

At SVSA, your surgeon and nurses will walk you through every instruction. Following these surgery preparation tips in Virginia ensures that your day runs smoothly and safely.

Arrival and Check-In

You’ll receive arrival instructions from SVSA before the procedure. Plan to come early to complete registration and review your consent forms. You’ll meet your nurse and anesthesiology provider, who will explain each step and answer questions.

Pre-Operative Area

Before surgery, your vital signs are checked, and an IV line is started for fluids and medication. Your surgical site will be marked and cleaned with antiseptic.

For vascular operations, real-time imaging such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy may be used to guide the surgeon during the procedure. This technology increases accuracy and reduces incision size.

During Surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may have:

• Local anesthesia – numbs a small area; you remain awake.
• Regional anesthesia – numbs a limb or body region.
• General anesthesia – you are fully asleep.

The vascular surgery team includes your surgeon, anesthesiologist, nurses, and technologists who monitor vital signs and assist throughout the operation.

Procedure duration:

• Minor endovascular interventions: 30–90 minutes.
• Medium surgical repairs: 1–3 hours.
• Complex vascular reconstructions: 3 hours or longer.

After Surgery

You’ll be taken to a recovery area where nurses monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen. Pain management begins immediately to keep you comfortable. Most patients wake within 30–60 minutes after anesthesia.

Some procedures are outpatient meaning you can go home the same day once you’re stable. Others may require short hospital observation. The care team will discuss this in advance.

Communication and Updates

While you’re in surgery, SVSA staff keep your designated family member informed. Once finished, the surgeon meets with your family to explain how the procedure went and what to expect during recovery.

This transparent process ensures that patients and families remain confident and informed every step of the way.

Immediate Recovery

After your procedure, you will stay in a monitored recovery area until your vital signs are stable. Nurses will assess your comfort level, pain control, and circulation especially important after vascular surgery. You may have compression wraps or dressings to support blood flow and minimize swelling.

Once you are fully awake and your surgeon approves, you will be transferred either to a short-stay observation room or discharged home if the procedure was outpatient.

Pain and Wound Care

Mild soreness or fatigue is common for several days. Your doctor will prescribe or recommend pain medication as needed.

• Keep your incision clean and dry.
• Follow your wound-care instructions exactly — especially if you have stitches, staples, or adhesive strips.
• Avoid soaking in tubs or pools until cleared by your surgeon.

If you notice increasing redness, swelling, drainage, or fever, contact the SVSA office right away. Early reporting prevents complications.

Activity and Mobility

Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until your surgeon confirms it is safe. For vascular procedures, movement helps keep blood vessels open and reduces swelling.

Follow-Up Visits

Your first postoperative visit is usually scheduled within 7–10 days. During this appointment, your vascular surgeon will check your incision, review any imaging or lab results, and discuss your progress. Additional follow-ups may be planned over the next few weeks to monitor healing and circulation.

Long-Term Care

Recovery does not end when the incision heals. SVSA emphasizes long-term vascular health:

• Maintain control of blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
• Stop smoking completely.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet and stay active.

These steps protect your surgical results and reduce the chance of recurrence.

Insurance and Coverage

Most vascular and general surgical procedures are covered by major insurance providers. SVSA participates in many national and regional insurance networks, including Medicare and most private plans. If you are uncertain about coverage, our billing specialists can verify your benefits before the procedure.

Referrals and Authorizations

In many cases, you do not need a referral to see a vascular surgeon. However, some insurance plans require preauthorization for specific imaging tests or inpatient admissions. SVSA’s administrative team will handle all necessary approvals to minimize delays.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

Co-payments and deductibles depend on your individual plan. You’ll receive a written estimate before the procedure. Payment plans are available for patients without insurance or with high deductibles.

Common Patient Questions and Short Answers

This table offers a quick overview for patients preparing for surgery in Virginia, addressing the most frequent questions received at SVSA.

How should I prepare for vascular surgery?

Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. Usually, you’ll need to stop eating the night before, take only approved medications, and arrange a ride home.

Do I need to stop taking my medications?

Some medications — especially blood thinners — may need to be paused before surgery. Always confirm with your doctor before making any changes.

How long does the procedure take?

It depends on the type of surgery. Minimally invasive vascular procedures may take about one hour, while more complex operations can last several hours.

When can I go home after surgery?

Most procedures at Shenandoah Valley Surgical Associates (SVSA) are outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day once you’re stable. Some patients may need short observation in the hospital.

What should I do if I feel pain or swelling afterward?

Mild soreness is normal, but if pain or swelling worsens or you notice redness, drainage, or fever, contact SVSA immediately. Prompt attention prevents complications.