We know that your surgery is a major life experience that, fortunately, doesn’t happen every day. But at Novant Health UVA Health System, it does happen many times every day and you’ll benefit from our experience and advanced expertise. We’ll support you from pre-registration through recovery and rehabilitation
Your surgery will be performed in one of our modern operating rooms that are equipped with advanced surgical technology, such as tools for robotic, laparoscopic and other minimally invasive procedures.
For more information about surgical services at Novant Health UVA Health System or to find a general or specialty surgeon, please call
1-855-311-8538
View our location finder
Questions you may have prior to your hospital stay for surgery
What is pre-registration? When you pre-register—
either online, if available, or by telephone — you provide information about
yourself and your medical insurance, if you have any. You do this ahead of time
so that your paperwork can be started before your scheduled hospital visit. If
you pre-register, we will provide you with helpful information in advance about
where to go and what to expect when you arrive.
What can I eat or drink before the surgery? You can
eat a normal meal before 10 p.m. the night before your procedure, unless instructed
otherwise by your surgeon. However, you should not eat or drink anything after
10 p.m. — including water, gum, candy or breath mints — unless instructed
otherwise by your anesthesiologist. For your safety, do not drink alcoholic
beverages the day before or the day of your procedure. If these guidelines are
not followed, your procedure may be delayed or canceled.
Should I continue taking my regular medications? You
can take your daily medications with a sip of water only if instructed to by
your anesthesiologist. If you are currently using a CPAP machine and/or
inhaler, bring it with you on the day of your procedure.
When do I need to arrive for my procedure? You should
plan to arrive two hours before the procedure, unless instructed otherwise by
your doctor or surgical center.
What should I wear the day of surgery? Wear loose,
comfortable clothing — preferably a button-up shirt or blouse. This will make
it easier for you to dress after your procedure. For your safety, you will be
asked to change into a hospital gown before your procedure. If you are
scheduled to stay overnight after your procedure, please leave any luggage in
your car or with the adult who is accompanying you until you have been assigned
a room.
What information do I need to bring along with me?
Bring your picture ID and all health insurance cards; for children, bring their
picture IDs, all health insurance cards, and proof of guardianship.
If you have a living will or advance directives, bring
copies of these documents as well. This service is not provided on the day of
surgery. Learn more about advance
directives.
Will I be able to drive myself home? Please arrange
for a responsible adult to drive you home following your procedure. Also,
please have a responsible adult willing and able to assist you during the first
24 hours following your surgery.
Do I need to remove my jewelry? All jewelry and body
piercings must be removed before your surgical procedure. For safekeeping,
leave all jewelry, money and valuables at home.