Preparing for Your Surgery

Our expertise assures our patients receive the most optimal care.

Patients who come to HSS find a highly focused, multidisciplinary team that can address every aspect of their musculoskeletal condition. Patients benefit from the interaction of orthopedic surgeons, radiologists, rheumatologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical therapists, and other medical specialties collaborating on the best approach to care. Working alongside them are case managers, patient liaisons, social workers, patient advocates, chaplains, interpreters, support staff and volunteers to provide a positive, seamless experience.

The following contains information about what you can expect as a patient, as well as resources for you before, during and after surgery.

HSS Patient Guides

View or download our guides for inpatient and outpatient surgery at HSS
Surgery: What to Expect

Explore the lifecycle of surgery at HSS, from the weeks before through to recovery
Preoperative Education

Classes and materials for spine and joint replacement surgery patients
Discharge Planning

Coordinated by case managers (registered nurses and licensed social workers)
Information for Caregivers

Integral patient care information for designated caregivers
Opioids & Your Recovery

Our conservative approach to prescribing opioids and medication safety tips

HSS Patient Guides

Surgical Patient Guides

Admissions Guide – Get answers to questions you may have about your upcoming surgery or medical visit.
Your Diet and Preparing for Surgery – These presurgical dietary guidelines are for general purposes. Your physician or surgeon may require you to follow an alternative plan. In that case, follow your healthcare team's specific instructions. If you are taking GLP-1 Agonists, please follow these diet instructions.
Managing Diabetes Before and After Surgery – Learn about managing glucose levels to improve your surgical outcome.
What Should I Bring to the Hospital? – Use this check list to guide you in your presurgical packing, as well as to learn what not to bring during your hospital stay.

Your Pathway to Recovery Guides

HSS provides comprehensive, essential overviews of everything having to do surgery at HSS, from an overview of the procedure and hospital maps to nutrition tips and illustrated physical therapy exercises. You will learn how to prepare for surgery at HSS, and what to expect after surgery and during recovery. It is designed for patients who are already scheduled for surgery at HSS, but open for all to read. Please note: these PDFs might take a few moments to open.