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What to Expect Before, During and After Surgery

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Undergoing surgery can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. At Greene County Medical Center, our skilled staff is dedicated to providing you and your loved ones exceptional care before, during and after your surgery. Learn about the various surgery services provided at Greene County Medical Center.

Your Surgery Options

At Greene County Medical Center, we are excited to now provide our patients with private pre- and post-op surgery rooms in our new surgery area, located in the medical center’s new 52,000-square-foot addition. We partner with Western Iowa Surgery to offer a variety of general surgery services. In addition, we have specialists who provide surgery here at the medical center on a monthly basis. No matter the surgery, Greene County Medical Center is here care for you. Surgery services at the medical center include:

General Surgery 

  • Colon resections (cancer surgeries)
  • Breast biopsies
  • Mastectomies
  • Cholecystectomies
  • Appendectomies
  • Hernia surgeries
  • Skin cancer lesion removal

Diagnostic Surgery 

  • Colonoscopies
  • Gastroscopies

OB/GYN Surgery 

  • C-sections
  • Surgeries for pelvic pain and bleeding
  • Bladder suspension
  • Permanent contraception
  • Diagnostic surgeries for endometriosis
  • Dilation and curettage (D&C)

Orthopedic Surgery

  • Knee arthroscopy
  • Shoulder arthroscopy
  • Total hip replacement
  • Total knee replacement
  • Orthotrauma (broken bones)
  • Carpal tunnel release
  • Trigger finger release

Specialty Surgery

  • Cataracts
  • Cystoscopies
  • ENT
  • Urology

Before Surgery 

Patients need surgery for a variety of reasons. At Greene County Medical Center, our surgeons and staff will meet with each patient regarding what surgery will be needed and when. Before surgery, the patient will meet with the surgeon to discuss risks, expected outcome of surgery and recovery time. It is during this appointment that the patient can bring any questions or concerns about the procedure.

In addition to preparing for surgery with the surgeons and staff, patients will also need to prepare for the procedure on their own. Depending on the procedure, the surgeon will have specific pre-op instructions for the patient, including:

  • Avoid eating and drinking after midnight the night before surgery
  • Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, mints, candy or chewing gum after midnight the night before surgery
  • Bring an up-to-date medication and allergy list - include allergies/sensitivities to medications, food and latex
  • Avoid ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, aspirin or blood thinners - they can affect blood clotting times 
  • The day of surgery, wear loose-fitting clothing appropriate for the type of surgery being performed
  • The day of surgery, avoid fingernail polish, makeup, jewelry and hair pins - if possible, wear glasses instead of contacts

During Surgery 

The experienced staff of nurses and surgeons at Greene County Medical Center and Western Iowa Surgery is committed to making sure each and every patient's surgical experience goes smoothly. When a patient comes in the day of surgery, our staff will explain the surgical process and answers any questions. Once the surgeon and staff have prepared the patient, our staff will begin to prep the patient for surgery. Additionally, it is suggested that the patient bring someone to the hospital to be an advocate throughout the process.

After Surgery 

After surgery has successfully been completed, recovery will take place in the patient’s private room. Whether a patient is required to stay for a few days or a few hours post surgery, our surgeons and nurses will keep each patient up-to-date on their situation and progress. Once the patient has been permitted to leave, the staff at Greene County Medical Center will be in direct contact with the patient regarding the steps needed for follow-up care.

Jefferson’s Trusted Surgery Center 

Greene County Medical Center is proud to be the trusted surgery center for Jefferson and the surrounding communities. It is our goal to ensure every patient’s surgical experience is efficient and comfortable. Learn more about our various surgical services as well as the Western Iowa Surgery physicians who provide them to Greene County Medical Center patients.