How to prepare properly for cancer surgery

The importance of proper preparation for cancer surgery at Avicenna Med

Preparing for cancer surgery is a crucial stage that determines not only the safety of the surgical procedure but also the pace of subsequent recovery. The doctor must assess the patient’s overall health, check heart function, blood clotting, the presence of any underlying conditions, and potential risks associated with anaesthesia. This is precisely why preparation for surgery is not limited to a few tests, but forms a clear medical pathway prior to the procedure. For the patient, it is also a way to better understand the upcoming treatment, ask the doctor important questions, and reduce anxiety before hospitalisation.

At Avicenna Med, we take a comprehensive approach that covers the patient’s medical, physical and psychological preparation. Our clinic’s specialists explain each stage, help patients undergo the necessary examinations, and provide recommendations on diet, medication and behaviour in the days leading up to the procedure. Such pre-operative preparation allows us to proceed without haste or unnecessary uncertainty. The medical centre has been operating in Kyiv, at 48 Dehtiarivska Street, since 2017 and provides patients with support at all stages of treatment in accordance with international standards.

Comprehensive medical diagnostics and a list of necessary tests

Prior to oncological surgery, the patient undergoes a step-by-step examination, which helps doctors to gain a complete picture of the patient’s condition. First, the surgeon analyses previous findings, test results and symptoms, after which they develop a personalised diagnostic plan. This process includes diagnostic testing, which allows for the clarification of important medical indicators prior to admission. It is precisely this preparation for surgery that helps to reduce risks during anaesthesia, plan the procedure correctly and avoid unforeseen situations in the operating theatre.

At our Avicenna Med clinic, patients can undergo the necessary examinations without the need for unnecessary travel between different medical facilities. Our in-house laboratory allows for the rapid submission of comprehensive blood tests, coagulograms, infection tests and specific tumour marker tests on a CITO basis – i.e. urgently. Expert-grade ultrasound is used to assess the condition of internal organs, whilst an ECG helps to check heart function prior to anaesthesia. Before surgery, the patient may be prescribed:

• a comprehensive blood test to assess the patient’s general health;
• a coagulogram to check blood clotting;
• a biochemical blood test to monitor liver and kidney function and glucose levels;
• tests for infections, necessary for safe hospitalisation;
• specific tumour markers, if recommended by a doctor;
• ECG and expert-grade ultrasound to assess organ function;
• consultation with a general practitioner and anaesthetist to assess risks prior to anaesthesia.

Once the results are received, the doctors agree on a plan of action. The general practitioner assesses your overall health, noting any chronic conditions, blood pressure, cardiovascular risks and potential contraindications. The anaesthetist checks for allergies, previous experience with anaesthesia, and regular medication, and provides clear recommendations regarding diet, fluid intake and medication on the day before the procedure. This process makes the preparatory stage clearer and safer for the patient.

Physical preparation and lifestyle adjustments before the procedure

Physical preparation before oncological surgery begins with careful attention to diet. A few days before the operation, the doctor may prescribe a special diet: lighter meals, sufficient fluids, and restrictions on foods that overload the digestive system. This allows the body to have more resources for recovery, and the digestive system does not create an additional burden before anaesthesia. It is important not to experiment with your diet on your own, not to fast without medical advice, and not to add new supplements or ‘health’ products without consulting your doctor.

Equally important is giving up harmful habits. Smoking impairs respiratory function and blood circulation, whilst alcohol can affect blood clotting, liver function and the body’s response to medication. This is precisely why pre-operative preparation always involves an honest discussion with the surgeon about your lifestyle and all the medicines you take regularly. This applies particularly to blood-thinning drugs, blood pressure medication, hormonal treatments and heart medicines. The doctor needs to know about these in advance so that they can safely adjust your medication before the procedure.

Mental preparation: how to overcome fear of cancer surgery

Fear of cancer surgery is a natural reaction, as the patient is faced with the unknown, medical terminology and the anticipation of major treatment. At such times, it is important not to be left alone with your anxiety, but to speak openly with your doctor: ask about the stages of the procedure, anaesthesia, recovery, and possible sensations after the operation. When preparation for surgery is accompanied by clear explanations, it is easier for the patient to prepare mentally and feel more in control of the situation.

At Avicenna Med, doctors pay attention not only to medical indicators but also to a person’s emotional state. Specialists are ready to answer all questions, explain the procedure in detail, and describe what will happen before, during, and after the procedure. Such dialogue helps to reduce anxiety levels and build trust in the medical team. Support is available not only to patients but also to relatives, for whom it is equally important to understand the treatment plan and know how to properly support their loved one.

The day before the operation: a step-by-step guide for the patient

Twenty-four hours before the procedure, it is important to remain calm and follow the doctor’s instructions precisely. During this period, you should avoid physical exertion, travel or activities that may cause unnecessary stress. Patients are usually allowed a light meal, but the exact time of the last meal and the start of fasting are determined by the anaesthetist. This is why pre-operative preparation on the day before the procedure must be carried out without making independent decisions: do not change medication dosages, take sedatives or drink water after the prohibited time without the doctor’s permission. Before admission, the patient should carry out a few simple but important steps:

1. Take only those medications authorised by the doctor or anaesthetist.
2. Have a light evening meal, unless a different dietary regimen has been prescribed.
3. Stop eating and drinking at the time specified by the anaesthetist.
4. Carry out personal hygiene routines without using harsh cosmetic products.
5. Remove contact lenses, jewellery, piercings and removable dentures before entering the operating theatre.
6. Bring your documents, test results, mobile phone, charger and essential personal items.
7. If applicable, inform the medical staff of any fever, cough, rash or sudden deterioration in your health.

When admitted to Avicenna Med, there is no need to bring many belongings, as the hospital is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay. This helps to avoid unnecessary fuss and focus on what matters most – calmly going through the preparation, trusting the medical team, and following all recommendations before being taken to the operating theatre. The simpler and clearer this day is for the patient, the less anxiety there is before the procedure.

Why should you entrust your oncological surgery to the specialists at Avicenna Med?

The choice of a clinic for oncological surgery should be based not on general promises, but on specific medical capabilities. Avicenna Med works with patients who require careful diagnosis, precise surgical planning and follow-up care after the procedure. The clinic holds a Ministry of Health licence for the treatment of oncological diseases, and operations are performed by highly qualified oncological surgeons with many years of practical experience. That is why we have a dedicated department – oncological surgery – where you can receive a consultation, undergo examinations and determine the further course of treatment. We invite you to familiarise yourself with the key advantages of Avicenna Med:

• holding a Ministry of Health licence for the treatment of cancer;
• the work of experienced oncological surgeons who tailor treatment plans to each individual patient;
• the use of minimally invasive techniques, including 3D laparoscopy;
• the ability to remove tumours with minimal blood loss where medically indicated;
• a modern intensive care unit for post-operative monitoring;
• a comfortable 24-hour inpatient ward with a dedicated nursing station.

This approach is important because oncological surgery does not end with the work in the operating theatre. The patient requires diagnosis, a clear surgical plan, safe anaesthesia, post-operative care and clear recommendations for recovery. At Avicenna Med, preparation for surgery is part of a comprehensive pathway, where each stage has its own objective: to reduce risks, improve the accuracy of treatment and help the patient navigate this period with greater peace of mind. A comfortable inpatient ward and round-the-clock medical supervision give the patient a sense of security after surgery, when support is particularly important.

Frequently asked questions about preparing for cancer surgery (FAQ)

• How long does a full pre-operative examination take?

In many cases, the basic examination can be completed in one or two days if the patient has a doctor’s referral and a clear list of tests. At Avicenna Med, this is facilitated by our in-house laboratory, CITO tests, ultrasound scans, ECGs and specialist consultations. However, the exact duration depends on the diagnosis, the extent of the surgery and the need for additional procedures. Pre-operative preparation must be sufficient to ensure a safe procedure.

• Can relatives stay at the clinic during and after the operation?

Yes, the possibility of relatives staying is discussed with the administration and the doctor, taking into account the patient’s condition, hospital rules and the medical situation. Relatives can help with paperwork, personal belongings, emotional support and communication after the procedure. If the patient is anxious, it is advisable to designate a single point of contact in advance.

• Do I need to buy the medication for the operation myself?

Our clinic operates a transparent pricing system for treatment. The necessary medication, consumables and stages of medical care are discussed before the operation so that the patient understands what they are paying for.

• What should I do if I develop a fever or a cough before the operation?

Do not hide your symptoms. Inform your doctor or the clinic’s medical staff immediately. A fever, cough, rash, sharp pain, diarrhoea or a sudden deterioration in your health may change the hospitalisation plan. Sometimes the operation is postponed to avoid increasing the risks to the patient. Preparation for the operation always includes an assessment of your condition at the time of the procedure.