Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot make my appointment?
Please notify your surgeon at their clinic as well as Center for Special Surgery at (701)356-4770 as early as possible if you cannot make your scheduled appointment.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Leave all jewelry at home, including body-piercing jewelry. If you wear contact lenses, you will probably have to remove them for your surgery, so consider bringing your glasses. If you do not have glasses, please bring contact solution and a contact case.
can I eat and/or drink prior to my surgery?
This is dependent on what type of procedure and anesthesia will be performed. Please note this varies from person to person. A nurse at the surgery center will direct you on what, if anything, you may eat or drink before surgery.
Who may accompany me?
You are welcome to bring a friend or relative to sit with you in your room before and after surgery if you choose.
Should I bathe and wash my hair before leaving home?
Yes. You can take a shower, bathe and brush your teeth. Please do not use make up, hair spray, nail polish or toiletries as these may interfere with the anesthesia monitoring.
May I drive home?
No. A patient receiving sedation needs a ride home. Please make arrangements for a driver and for a responsible adult to care for you when you arrive home.
Should I bring my special needs equipment?
Yes. Please bring any post-op crutches, hearing aids, walkers, etc.
What must I bring with me on the day of surgery?
Case for eyeglasses or contacts
Insurance identification cards, completed billing forms if requested, co-payments
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
Make sure you have a ride home and someone to care for you at home for 24 hours.
What can I expect if my child has surgery at Center for Special Surgery?
Children and families are treated with the utmost care. Parents are encouraged to be with their child as much as possible, right up to the time of surgery and during recovery.
How is Center for Special Surgery different from a hospital?
We have eliminated many common concerns about outpatient surgery. Parking is immediately outside the building with designated drop-off/pick-up areas. The surgery center has private pre-surgery and recovery rooms; and a discreet patient exit which will make your experience easier and more convenient.
Because Center for Special Surgery focuses only on outpatient surgeries, procedures are not delayed by more critical cases, as sometimes happens at hospitals.
How do I arrange to have my surgery done at Center for Special Surgery?
You and your physician can make the decision to have your procedure performed at Center for Special Surgery. All cases will be scheduled by your physician’s office.