Below you will find some frequently asked questions pertaining to your procedure. Click the + icon to expand and read the answer.
Should I eat before my procedure?
With the exception of patients receiving sedation, you should not eat 2 hours prior to your procedure. You may take small sips of water.
Can I drive home after my procedure?
In the majority of the cases, you will be able to drive home. However, some people may experience some unsteadiness, or weakness. If so, we will monitor you and make sure you are able to drive home before you leave our office. If you receive conscious sedation, you may not drive yourself home.
Should I take my medications the day of the procedure?
With the exception of blood thinners, or anticoagulants, you should take your medications as normally scheduled. If you are on any anticoagulants, please contact our office for specific instructions. Please do not discontinue your anticoagulants until you have spoken with us.
Can I be sedated?
We offer conscious sedation for patients who may be anxious over their procedure. You will be sedated, monitored, awake and breathing on your own. We ask that you do not eat any solid foods for 6 hours prior to your procedure. You make drink clear liquids up to 2 hours prior. Please contact us if you would like to receive sedation.
You must have a driver with you in order to receive sedation.
Where will my procedure be performed?
We have two procedure suites where we perform the majority of our procedures. You will be monitored during the procedure to assure your safety and comfort. A nurse will be with you the entire time your physician is performing your procedure.
Are there limitations after I have my procedure?
Most patients can resume their normal activities or return to work right after the procedure. This will vary from patient to patient and depend upon your general health, and whether or not you received sedation. A complete list of instructions will be given to you.
Please contact our office if you are taking any anticoagulants or blood thinners.
For certain procedures, it is important that you discontinue certain anticoagulants or blood thinners. However, DO NOT DISCONTINUE ANY PRESCRIBED ANTICOAGULANT WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE PRESCRIBING DOCTOR.
Below is a list of anticoagulants currently in use. New anticoagulants are developed on a routine basis, so this list will not be comprehensive. If you see your medication below, please contact our office. If you are unsure that a medication is an anticoagulant, again please contact us.
- Enoxaparin / Lovenox
- Foundaparinux / Arixtra
- Coumadin / Warfarin
- Heparin
- Rivaroxaban / Xarelto
- Dabigatran / Pradaxa
- Dalteparin /Fragmin
- Abciximab / Reopro
- Clopridogrel / Plavix
- Eptifibatide / Integrelin
- Prasugel / Effient
- Tirofiban / Aggrastat
- Aggrenox
- Dipyridamole
Anticoagulants or blood thinners are used for a variety of conditions, such as heart disease, stroke prevention, vascular occlusion.
Please DO NOT stop your anticoagulants unless you have spoken with us