Preparing for Orthopaedic Surgery at Mass General

A checklist to complete before your Orthopaedic Surgery at Mass General Hospital.

Pre-Surgical Checklist:
Steps to complete before your surgery

• Read the information from your doctor’s office. Call your doctor if you have any questions.
• Schedule to meet with other doctors (like a cardiologist, or primary care doctor) if advised by your doctor before your Pre-Admission Testing phone call.
• Prepare for your Pre-Admission Testing phone call by gathering your health information including:
  • Allergies
  • Medications
  • Implanted devices
  • Medical history
• Fill out your pre-surgical assessment online through Patient Gateway. This helps save time on your Pre-Admission Testing phone call.
• Complete blood draw and testing.
  • Visit the second floor of the Wang Building for blood draw and ECGs.
  • Hours:
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 6:00am - 6:00pm
  • Friday: 6:00am - 5:00pm
  • Saturday, Sunday: 9:30am - 3:30pm (on weekends, go to the Primary Care Urgent Access Center at Yawkey 4B on 55 Fruit St.)
• Complete your Pre-Admission Testing Appointment by phone.
• Prepare your after-surgery arrangements:
  • Prepare your living space
  • Ensure your prescriptions for your usual medications are filled prior to your surgery
  • Stock up on prepared foods and groceries prior to your surgery
  • Arrange for someone to drop you off at MGH for your surgery and to pick you up at your discharge
• Follow the instructions for the day of surgery, as advised by your surgeon.