Your doctor has chosen the Avicenna Ambulatory Surgery Center for your procedure because you will not require admission to a hospital. Your surgeon may require a Surgical Clearance or an Anesthesia Evaluation. These tests, if necessary, are scheduled a few days before your procedure. This may include blood tests, chest X-Ray and/or an EKG. Any changes in your physical condition such as a cold or a fever should be reported immediately to your doctor. You must inform your doctor of any medication (including aspirin) that you are currently taking. A member of our staff will contact you to make all necessary arrangements for your surgery and will address any questions or concerns you may have about your procedure.

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery (this includes drinking water and chewing gum). Arrange transportation to and from Avicenna ASC on the day of your surgery. Have a responsible person available to accompany you home. You cannot drive yourself home after your procedure because your alertness will be reduced due to anesthesia and medication. Patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Make no other plans for the day of your surgery. Wear casual and comfortable clothing which can be easily stored in a locker. Please do not wear jewelry or makeup. You may be asked to remove your dentures, contact lenses or other prosthetic devices. Please arrive one hour prior to your scheduled surgery time to prepare for your procedure.

You will be brought to the Recovery Room where you will be attended by our skilled nursing staff. You will be given something to drink and a light snack will be available. Your family members will not be allowed in the Recovery Room until you are ready to be discharged. The surgeon’s post-operative instructions will be reviewed with you and your family. You may feel sleepy or dizzy from the anesthesia and medication, which is common following a surgical procedure. Have a responsible adult remain with you at home should you need assistance. Refrain from any strenuous activity. A nurse will call you the day after your surgery to monitor your progress.

Upon your arrival to Avicenna ASC, you will be examined by an anesthesiologist who will review your medical history, answer any questions you may have and discuss the appropriate type of anesthesia to be used. Local Anesthesia: numbs only the area being operated on and allows you to remain awake during the procedure. Regional Anesthesia: a portion of the body is “blocked” from feeling pain while you remain awake. General Anesthesia: you will be asleep throughout the procedure. Monitored Anesthesia: you receive medication to make you comfortable during the procedure. This is often given in addition to local anesthesia.

Facility fees for ambulatory surgery are typically covered by most insurance companies, Medicare and Medicaid. Deductibles and co-insurance are the responsibility of the patient and are payable the day of surgery. Surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and pre-admission testing are not part of Avicenna ASC facility fee and are billed separately to your insurance company. Payment can be made by credit card and financing arrangements may be available for self-pay patients.