It’s no secret that the use of drugs and supplements can have a significant impact on surgical outcomes. Many surgeons in Bethlehem, Georgia, will advise patients to avoid using certain medicines and supplements before surgery. This is because their use can increase the risk of complications or adverse effects. One such surgery is lumbar fusion, which is often performed to treat chronic lower back pain. While lumbar fusion in Bethlehem is a relatively safe procedure, patients should avoid certain drugs and supplements before surgery. They include:
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Vitamin E
This vitamin is found in many supplements and is a common ingredient in skincare products. It’s often touted for its antioxidant properties. However, vitamin E can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using supplements or products that contain vitamin E before lumbar fusion.
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Herbals (Gingko, Glucosamine)
Herbal supplements can be a great way to boost your health, but they can also cause problems if taken in large doses or before surgery. Gingko, for example, can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Glucosamine can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using any herbal supplements before lumbar fusion.
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Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are a type of medication that includes ibuprofen and naproxen. They’re often used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. However, they can also increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using NSAIDs in the weeks leading up to lumbar fusion.
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Blood Thinners (Coumadin, Heparin)
Blood thinners are medications that prevent blood clots from forming. They’re often used to treat conditions such as heart disease and stroke. However, they can also increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
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Antiplatelets
Antiplatelets (Plavix, Ticlid, Fragmin, Orgaran, Lovenox, Innohep) are medications that prevent blood clots from forming. They’re often used to treat conditions such as heart disease and stroke. However, they can also pose a risk of bleeding during surgery
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Wintergreen Snuff
Smoking is a well-known risk factor for surgery. It can increase the risk of complications, such as infection and poor healing. However, snuff or chewing tobacco can also have similar effects. This is because they contain nicotine, interfering with blood flow and wound healing. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using any form of tobacco before lumbar fusion.
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Aspirin
Aspirin is a medication used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It’s also available over the counter. While aspirin is generally safe, it can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using aspirin in the weeks leading up to lumbar fusion.
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Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin)
Ibuprofen is a medication used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It’s available over the counter and by prescription. While ibuprofen is generally safe, it can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. For this reason, it’s best to avoid using ibuprofen in the weeks leading up to lumbar fusion.
If you’re scheduled for lumbar fusion surgery, it’s essential to talk to your surgeon about the drugs and supplements you’re using. They will likely advise you to avoid using certain substances in the weeks leading up to surgery. This can help reduce the risk of complications or adverse effects.