Preparing For Your Procedure

Your health and comfort are our highest priority, and we value the trust that you place in us. We will do everything possible to ensure that you feel prepared for your procedure, that you feel at ease the day of your procedure, and that the entire process goes very smoothly.

Your doctor and our staff are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Here are some tips on how to prepare and what to expect: Your doctor will likely order imaging such as a CT scan or MRI, in order to help him make an accurate diagnosis of your condition. You will need to make sure to complete your imaging appointment.

If you take any medications that prevents blood clots (often called ‘blood thinners) such as Plavix or Coumadin you must be off the medication for 7 days prior to the procedure. In certain situations, you may be required to get approval from the prescribing physician or your cardiologist.

Due to certain health risks, the doctor will not be able to carry out the procedure if you have any type of active infection (including a cold or sinus infection) or if you may be pregnant. Please cancel the procedure with our office if you are ill at least 24 hours prior to the procedure.

On the day of your procedure, please arrive on time, and bring a responsible adult with you who can drive you home afterward if you are having sedation.

Sedation Guidelines:

• Please be “NPO” (nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours prior to the procedure).
• Clear liquids and black coffee (no creamer) are allowed up to 2 hours prior to the procedure.

What to Expect During Your Procedure:

You will have the opportunity to speak with a procedure center staff member during the check-in process. Please keep in mind that the procedure center staff does not have access to your complete medical record and cannot perform an office visit or refill any prescription medications on your procedure day.

The staff member and/or your doctor will discuss the procedure with you and you will be asked to sign a consent form giving us permission to perform the procedure.

If you are requesting light intravenous sedation, a team member will place the intravenous catheter. Next, you will be escorted into the procedure room, where you will lie down on the treatment table. The area of your body to undergo treatment will be cleaned with antibacterial soap, and then typically the skin will be numbed via an injection of local anesthetic using a tiny needle. The local anesthetic may sting for a brief moment, however, it will greatly improve your comfort during the procedure.

In order to visualize what is taking place during the procedure, the doctor may use ultrasound, or X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) and therefore a radiology technician is often also present to assist with your procedure.

If for any reason you feel discomfort while the procedure is taking place, let your doctor know. He or she may be able to make adjustments to help you feel more comfortable.

When your procedure is finished, a sterile bandage will cover the site. You will be escorted to a recovery area to relax until you feel comfortable enough to leave.

If you choose to receive conscious sedation, you cannot have anything to eat for six hours prior to the procedure. You may have clear liquids (water, apple juice, clear tea, black coffee without cream and sugar) up to two hours prior to your procedure. You may take routine medications the day of your procedure.

When you are ready to be discharged home, a medical assistant will provide you with after care instructions. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, we are only a phone call away. You can reach us at (702) 912-4100.