Once you have decided to have surgery, the doctor will need to write orders to specify the procedure and any tests you may need prior to surgery. Our office has surgery coordinators to assist you with all appointments related to your surgery.
Depending on the type of surgery and your medical history will determine where your surgery will be performed. The majority of our outpatient surgeries are done at the
Rocky Mountain Surgical Center . All of our inpatient surgeries are done at
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital.
We can assist you with the billing of your insurance. However, it is your responsibility to contact your insurance company. We encourage our patients to contact their insurance company prior to any surgery to verify eligibility, coverage, and pre-authorization requirements.
If you have any questions, regarding your upcoming surgery, please contact our surgery coordinators at 406-587-0122.
Planning for Surgery
Where is my surgery scheduled?
Depending on the type of surgery and your medical history will determine where your surgery will be done. The majority of our outpatient surgeries are done at the Rocky Mountain Surgical Center. All of our inpatient surgeries are done at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital.
Why do I need a Pre-op Surgical Clearance?
You may be asked to get a complete pre-surgical clearance with your primary care physician depending on the type of surgery you are having or your medical history. This exam is to assess systems in your body that may be affected by anesthesia or surgery. Pre-op surgical clearance provides the surgeon and anesthesiologist with important information that helps to determine if you may need extra monitoring during your surgery.
What happens if I am not cleared for surgery?
If your primary care physician identifies a problem during your exam your surgery may be canceled or postponed. However, most of our patients need only to have medication adjusted or additional testing done before being cleared for surgery. <br
As soon as a preoperative clearance is received by our office and reviewed, we can proceed with scheduling. It may take 1-2 days after your visit to receive the necessary paperwork.
What tests do I need before surgery?
Depending on the type of surgery, age, and medical history you may be required to have current EKG & Chest X-ray, blood work, or Stress echocardiogram. EKG, Stress echocardiogram and chest x-rays are good for 6 months. Blood work needs to be done within four weeks of surgery. Please let us know if you have had any of these tests done recently so we can have the results forwarded to our office
DO NOT TAKE Aspirin, anti-inflammatories, Plavix, Coumadin, or Ibuprofen-Related products
Stop taking medications contain aspirin or ibuprofen 10 days before your scheduled surgery unless otherwise advised by your physician or physician assistant. You may use medication containing acetaminophen (such as Tylenol
If you are taking Coumadin contact your primary care physician with instructions prior to stopping. You may be required to switch to Lovenox a few days before surgery.
If you have questions about a particular prescription or over the counter medications please contact our office at 587-0122 and ask to speak with a physician assistant.
Do I need Crutches?
If you are having surgery on your leg or foot we recommend bringing crutches with you.
Can I drive home after surgery?
No, you must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home. You will not be able to drive or take a taxi.
The night before Surgery
Do not eat or drink anything after 10:00pm the night before surgery or as instructed. You surgery may be canceled if these instructions are not followed. This includes water, coffee, and gum.
What time do I check in for Surgery?
If you are having surgery at the Rocky Mountain Surgical Center they will call you 2-3 days prior to your surgery with check-in time and eating instructions. If you have not received this information please call the surgery center at 556-9000.
If you are having surgery at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital they will call you the day before surgery between 11:00am-2:00pm with check-in times and eating instructions. If you have not received this information please call Bozeman Deaconess Hospital at 522-1600.
Can I request a check-in time for surgery?
Yes, but we do not guarantee exact check-in times. Surgery times depend on specific medical needs, age and type of surgery. We will do our best to accommodate your request. If you would like to request a surgery time please call 587-0122 and ask to be transferred to one of the surgery coordinators.
Who Contacts my Insurance?
It is your responsibility to contact your insurance prior to any surgery to verify eligibility, coverage and pre-authorization requirements. If you are scheduled for inpatient surgery the surgery coordinating department at Bridger Orthopedic and Sports medicine will call your insurance company to pre-certify.
Medicare & Medicaid patients: Medicare & Medicaid does not require a phone call or pre-authorization for any inpatient or outpatient surgery.
What kind of Anesthesia am I going to have?
The anesthesiologist will discuss detailed risks of general vs. spinal anesthesia the morning of surgery. You will be able to decide what type of anesthesia you would like prior to surgery.
Are family and friends allowed to visit?
Family and friends will be allowed to visit once you have been transferred to the recovery area. Due space limitations we ask that you bring no more than two family members/friends with you the day of surgery.