Pre-operative trajectory

 

If surgical treatment is decided upon, the following pre-operative appointments need to be scheduled.

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Surgical consultation

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The surgeon will go over the next steps with you. The operation itself will be discussed with you as well as the possible complications of the procedure. The long-term consequences are explained. Possible questions you may have will be discussed in detail.

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Gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound

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To assess the stomach before surgery and rule out a possible peptic ulcer or gastric polyp, a gastric examination is requested. This also tests whether a certain bacterium (Helicobacter pylori) is present in the stomach. If this is the case, it should be treated with a short course of antibiotics before surgery. 

 

An ultrasound of the liver is also performed to detect any abnormalities in the liver or gallbladder.

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General practitioner

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In preparation for surgery, you should visit your doctor to go over the pre-operative checklist together. If necessary, another blood test or electrocardiogram (ECG) will be performed.

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Dietary consult

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The dietician reviews with you in detail the diet to be followed after surgery and answers any practical questions you may have regarding this. 

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The patient is also informed about the pre-operative diet, which should be started about 14 days before the scheduled operation. This diet is low in calories but rich in protein with the following intent:

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- Decreasing of the amount of fat in the liver with thereby decreasing the liver volume. This allows the surgeon easier access to the stomach during surgery. 

-  Build up of the protein reserves. This ensures better healing in the first days after surgery and partially compensates for the reduced protein intake that follows in the first weeks after surgery. 

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Additional investigations

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Depending on other conditions that you have or certain advice after the multidisciplinary consultation, additional examinations may be requested. This will be discussed with you.

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Home medication

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Your home medication, if any, will be reviewed by our team of hospital pharmacists to see if any form or dose adjustments need to be made after the procedure.

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