You may have had surgery delayed or be wondering about how to prepare for surgery or other treatment. There are some important differences due to COVID-19 but changes are happening constantly as we return to closer to normal after the restrictions that have been in place to control the COVID Pandemic are reduced. Waiting times for surgery in the private sector are now usually short and similar to the pre-COVID era. Guidance from the Royal College of Surgeons of England has been produced to help patients. This Guidance explains what might different about surgery during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spire organisation also has its own guidance. This is particularly true if you have recently tested positive for COVID and you would need to mention this when booking for your appointment and when you see a team member.
The Tunbridge Wells Urology team are now offering a normal comprehensive service (as in the NHS). This includes being able to offer diagnostic tests as well as operations under anaesthesia.
New Royal College of Surgeons guidance describes some new areas of risk. It also gives some examples as to how you can get in the best possible shape for your surgery. Thinking about optimising your choices about diet and physical activity will be something that can be part of the process of getting fit for surgery.
Some Scottish NHS trusts have devised excellent written information on exercise before surgery. This may be useful as to some examples of what to start with if you are fit and well but not taking regular exercise. If you are uncertain about if exercise is right for you, it may be worth discussing with your doctor or asking to see one of the Physiotherapists at Spire Tunbridge Wells.