If you have been advised by the medical team caring for you that you may benefit from having spinal surgery then the following information will help ensure you are as prepared as you can be for your surgery and recovery.

• Pre-assessment information - You will be invited to attend the pre-operative assessment clinic before your operation. You will meet one of the specialist nurses who will ask you questions about your health and may arrange appropriate tests such as blood tests and an ECG (heart tracing) if needed. This process is designed to make sure you are as physically ready for surgery as possible and also gives you information about what to expect so you can take time to think about whether you still want to go ahead.
• British Association of Spine Surgeons- advice for patients

• You and your anaesthetic
• Preventing hospital-associated blood clots
• MRSA

• Advice for patients following back surgery 
• Conserving energy