Practical guides for patients and families

Travelling to Indore for a consultation

Many patients come from Ujjain, Dewas, Dhar, Ratlam, Khargone and other districts. A little planning can save a second trip.

• Call before you leave to confirm the day and OPD time.
• Carry every scan film, CD and report you have, including old ones. Comparing old and new scans often answers important questions.
• Carry a list of all medicines, including any blood thinners or diabetes medicines.
• If the patient cannot walk well, arrange a wheelchair or a family member to help.
• If a new scan may be needed, keep a few extra hours free on the same day.
• Plan to come with the family member who will help make decisions, so everyone hears the same explanation.

Preparing for brain or spine surgery

If surgery is advised, you will be told why, what the options are, and what the risks are. Take time to ask questions before you decide.

• Ask what will happen if you do not have the operation, and whether there are other options.
• Get the blood tests, heart check and other tests your surgeon and anaesthetist ask for.
• Do not stop or start any medicine on your own. Ask your doctor about blood thinners well before the surgery date.
• Follow fasting instructions exactly. Usually no food for several hours before surgery.
• Stop smoking and tobacco as early as possible. It slows healing.
• Arrange for a family member to stay with you in hospital and for the first days at home.

Recovering at home

Recovery depends on the operation and on your health before surgery. These general points apply to most patients.

• Take medicines exactly as prescribed and keep every follow-up appointment.
• Keep the wound clean and dry. Do not apply anything to it unless advised.
• Walk a little several times a day from the start, as advised. Avoid lifting heavy weights until your surgeon says it is safe.
• After spine surgery, avoid bending and twisting suddenly in the first weeks.
• Return to work and driving only when your surgeon advises.

Contact the doctor or go to the emergency department straight away if you have fever, redness, swelling or fluid from the wound, a new or worsening headache, vomiting, drowsiness, fits, new weakness or numbness, or difficulty passing urine.