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Out of State Patient: Surgery At Mayo/St. Mary’s - Tips
Hi,
I am a patient at Mayo, and about to have surgery on a very complex situation on the wrist. I have had multiple surgeries on the same arm in the past, but they have always been done near my home, in a surgery center. I am not sure what to expect from having a surgery done at Mayo/St. Mary’s other than I will still be an outpatient.
Anyone have any suggestions or tips on having surgery at St. Mary’s, or what to expect after surgery as an out of state patient? I know follow-ups will be difficult and expensive as I have to fly, but I have family support to help. I am a bit nervous to fly after surgery, but (currently) I am told I can fly home after 1-2 days. The airline said as long as the doctor clears me to fly they don’t have an issue (I don’t even need some sort of proof from a doctor).
My doctor and I was hoping that I would not have any complications which would need me to be seen immediately, as I cannot stay the full 2 weeks before my 1st follow-up.
I am hoping that surgery at in an actual hospital would be the same as any surgical center/clinic. So my mom can stay with me until I am to walk or wheeled away to the operating room.
I am also hoping I won’t completely be knocked out by the time I get back to my hotel room as I wake up quickly right after surgery, but the anesthesia rebound effects hits me hard! So I have a very short “golden time” when I am awake and “out” again for hours. So trying to factor getting “dressed” and shuttle ride to even the very closest of hotels…is tricky.
Anyone have anything helpful tips or suggestions? Surgery anxiety is running high as not even 90% sure what the outcome will be at this point.
Thanks.
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@trissy
It has been few years since had surgery at a Mayo's hospital, but can give you normal process for an outpatient.
You will check in at St Mary's admission desk and then be escorted to a surgical area. From waiting room, you will be taken to a room to change clothes. Depending on space and area, you mother may be able to stay with you during this time. From there you will go to pre-op. I doubt your mother will be allowed in pre-op, this is where you will have last chat with surgeon, anesthesiologist, have vitals taken, etc,,, This would be great time to ask anesthesiologist about wake up process and your concerns. From pre-op, you will be taken to surgical room.
The surgical area has process to keep your mother up to date during day. There is a patient cafeteria on main floor if your mother wants to get something to eat or cup of coffee.
After surgery, you will be taken to a post-op area to wake up. After stable and awake, you will be go to room to be observed and get ready to be dismissed. If need medications, your next stop will be the pharmacy in St Mary's. Then if taking a hotel shuttle, there is a waiting area where they will announce as shuttles arrive.
There are also hotels directly across the street from St Mary's. You also have option to take a Uber or taxi if do not want wait for shuttle.
Are you flying into Rochester or MSP? Do you know what hotel you will be staying at?
@trissy I have had outpatient surgery at the other Mayo Clinic hospital in Rochester (Methodist Hospital) and my husband has had two outpatient surgeries at St. Mary's. @roch provided you with information on check in and how the hospital will stay in contact with your mother throughout your surgery.
I suggest that if it's affordable that you and your mom stay an additional day even after your Mayo surgeon clears you to fly home. Why do I suggest this? In both my and my husband's cases we drive 1000 miles round trip to and from Mayo Clinic. We decided to stay an additional day in case of any complications or infections. We live in a rural area and there are no specialists to consult with in our area. It sounds like you already have a good relationship with your local surgeon so that may not apply to you.
When is your surgery scheduled at St. Mary's?