Pre-Op

The thyroid and parathyroid surgery process can be a stressful one. While you can rest assured that your procedure will go smoothly thanks to the capable and caring hands of Dr. Teresa Kroeker, it’s important that you understand what the entire process looks like. Leading up to your operation, you’ll need to follow these steps and suggestions to ensure that there are no unnecessary complications surrounding your surgery.

If you have more questions about the pre-operation process, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Kroeker and her staff at the Texas Thyroid & Parathyroid Center. They’re more than willing to answer any questions you may have about the pre-op process or your post-operative recovery.

What to expect on your initial visit

  • A thorough history and physical.
  • Review of your existing labs, x-­‐rays, and other information.
  • Ultrasound of your thyroid and neck if indicated.
  • Fine needle aspiration (biopsy) of a thyroid nodule or neck mass if indicated.
  • Evaluation of your vocal cords if indicated.
  • Discuss treatment plan and follow‐up.

Special instructions before surgery

  • Stop using NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Excedrin migraine) 10 days prior to surgery.
  • If you are on a blood thinner such as Coumadin, Plavix, Effient, Brilinta, or any other blood thinning agent, this must be stopped prior to surgery. Talk to Dr. Kroeker as well as your cardiologist about when to stop this medication before surgery.
  • Stop all vitamins, herbal supplements, and any other homeopathic medications for 7 days before surgery.
  • You will receive a call from the outpatient surgery team several days prior to your surgery. At that time, a pre-operative nurse will review your medical information with you and will provide you with details for the day of surgery.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. Your stomach must be empty of food before you go to the operating room.
  • You may have a very small sip of water to take your usual medications the morning of surgery unless Dr. Kroeker or the anesthesiologist has specified otherwise.
  • The day of surgery, arrive at the hospital or surgery center at the specified time by the outpatient surgery department. Please arrive promptly and always allow extra time for Austin traffic.

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