Pre-Operative Instructions
1) Medications
-
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aleve, Aspirin, Advil, Naproxen, etc.): Stop 5–7 days before your procedure.
-
Blood Thinners / Anticoagulants: Only stop with approval from your prescribing provider.
| Medication | Stop Before Procedure |
|---|---|
| Coumadin (Warfarin) | 5–7 days |
| Plavix (Clopidogrel) | 7 days |
| Eliquis (Apixaban) | 5 days |
| Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) | 5 days |
| Pradaxa (Dabigatran) | 4 days |
| Lovenox (Enoxaparin) | 24 hours |
-
Weight-loss/diabetes injection medications (GLP-1 medications):
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, Rybelsus, etc. must be stopped 7 days before your procedure. -
Other Daily Medications: Continue your usual medications (heart, blood pressure, thyroid, cholesterol, etc.) with a small sip of water the morning of your procedure.
2) Diabetic Patients
- Monitor blood sugar closely.
- Reduce long-acting insulin dose by 50% the morning of your procedure.
- Hold oral diabetes medications if fasting longer than 8 hours.
- Bring your glucose monitor and supplies with you.
- Your blood sugar should be under 200 on the day of the procedure.
3) Fasting (NPO Guidelines)
- All patients who require sedation must not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the procedure.
- You may take your essential morning medications with a small sip of water.
4) Hygiene
- Shower the night before and/or the morning of your procedure with antibacterial soap.
- Do not wear makeup, lotions, oils, perfumes, or deodorants.
- Remove nail polish from at least two fingers (for monitoring equipment).
5) What to Bring
- Photo ID
- Updated medication list
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Completed paperwork
6) Transportation
If Sedation Is Planned:
- You must have a responsible adult (18+) drive you to and from your procedure.
- Your driver must remain on site during the procedure.
- Public transportation, taxis, and rideshares are not allowed unless accompanied by your responsible adult.
- If you do not have a driver, your procedure will be rescheduled.
If No Sedation: You may drive yourself unless otherwise instructed.
7) Allergies
-
Notify staff of any known allergies to medications, latex, or contrast dye.
Post-Operative Instructions
Immediately After the Procedure
- You will be monitored for 15–30 minutes.
- If sedated, your driver must be present before discharge.
- Mild numbness or soreness at the injection site is normal.
For the First 24 Hours (if Sedated)
- No driving
- No alcohol
- No heavy lifting
- Rest, then gradually return to normal activities as tolerated
Pain Relief Expectations
- Mild discomfort, soreness, or numbness is normal.
- Use ice packs (15–20 minutes at a time) for relief.
- If steroids were used, pain relief may take 3–7 days to begin.
Call Our Office or Go To The ER If You Experience:
- Fever over 101°F
- Severe pain or swelling
- Signs of infection (redness, drainage at injection site)
- Difficulty breathing, new weakness, or loss of function
Call (424) 254-3592
Follow-Up
- A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 2 weeks after your procedure.
- Please bring any questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.