Preparing for Your Spine Surgery

What to Do Before Your Scheduled Surgery

If you are scheduled for spine surgery at MyMichigan Health, this page will help you get ready for your procedure. Below is a list of important steps to complete before your surgery.

Pre-Surgical Checklist

1. Complete Spine Education online or in-person.
   • Spine Camp is required before surgery. This class helps patients prepare for surgery and recovery, understand what to expect and support better surgical outcomes. Topics include pain management, home safety, equipment needs, exercises and recovery planning.
2. Talk to a nurse from the MSSIC program and complete the baseline questionnaire.
3. Complete your Pre-Surgical Readiness Plan
4. Talk to a Pre-Admissions nurse from “Polly” to review your health history for Anesthesia (If you have not already scheduled your Pre-Admission phone appointment, please call (989) 633-5252 and ask for "Polly.")
5. Discuss your Advanced Medical Directives, Power of Attorney and Living Will with your family.
6. Purchase or receive your 10-ounce serving of Ensure Pre-Surgery Clear Liquid Drink to have the morning of surgery. (As an alternative or for diabetic patients, 12-ounce 100% White Grape Juice, no added sugar can be used as a substitute.)
   • Finish drinking beverage no later than 2 hours before scheduled arrival time.
7. If requested by your medical team, receive additional education, coaching or guidance for weight management, nutrition, smoking cessation, and/or diabetes management to improve your pre-surgical health.
8. If requested by your medical team, complete all lab work and testing at least 2 days before your surgery.
9. If requested by your medical team, have any medical and/or cardiac clearance appointment.