Please upgrade to the latest version of Flash Player.
Click here if you already have Flash Player installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of some frequently asked questions, but please feel free to call our office if you need additional information.
Visiting NOSS
- What should I expect during my first office visit?
- What should I bring to my office visit?
- Will I always see the same doctor at NOSS?
Surgery
Before Surgery
- What kinds of tests will I need before surgery?
- Will I need to donate blood before surgery?
- Are there any medicines I need to take before surgery?
- Are there any medications I need to stop taking before surgery?
At the Hospital
- What should I bring to the hospital?
- When should I arrive at the hospital for my surgery?
- Can my family stay with me during this time?
- Will I be under anesthesia during the procedure?
- Will the surgeon see my family immediately after surgery is completed?
Visiting NOSS
What should I expect during my first office visit?
During your initial office visit you will meet with one of our experienced physicians who will begin the process of evaluating your condition. Your doctor will discuss your medical history and symptoms with you, conduct a physical examination, and order any tests deemed necessary to accurately diagnose your condition and develop an effective treatment plan.
What should I bring to my office visit?
It is important for you to bring your insurance card, any required insurance co-pay, and a physician's referral if required by your insurance carrier. We also ask that, if possible, you bring the completed patient registration forms available for download on this site. Please click here to access those forms.
You should also bring any relevant test or imaging studies, such as x-rays, MRI or CT scans. We are happy to accept both film and CD images.
Will I always see the same doctor at NOSS?
At NOSS, we promote strong patient-doctor relationships in order to ensure the highest quality of care for all our patients. To achieve this, all of your scheduled appointments and surgeries will be with the same doctor. In extenuating or emergency circumstances, another doctor -- or physician assistant who works closely with your doctor -- may be seen. All of our doctors and physician assistants are fully trained, and provide the highest quality of care for your individual condition.
Surgery
Do most patients who visit NOSS need surgery?
While some of our patients do require surgery in order to treat their condition, the majority can be effectively treated through non-surgical techniques. Along with on-site physical therapy and aquatic therapy services, the NOSS team includes specialists in physical and rehabilitative medicine, injection therapies, pain management, and chiropractic care. Our doctors work together to coordinate non-operative treatment to optimize you return to good health.
If I do need surgery, what can I expect?
Prior to making any decision regarding surgery, your NOSS physician will work closely with you to be sure that all of your questions and concerns have been addressed to your full satisfaction. Your doctor will discuss details of any surgical procedure indicated for your condition, including any risks or consequences. Together, you will also consider alternative treatment options.
Once a decision is made to move forward with surgical intervention, your doctor will discuss with you, again, the details of the procedure, including its indications and risks. You will be asked to sign and submit a patient consent form, confirming that you have a complete understanding of all risks and benefits associated with your procedure.
At NOSS, we perform many different operative procedures, including a wide variety of minimally invasive procedures that effectively treat conditions while minimizing trauma and recovery times.
For more specific details about your specific intervention, talk to your NOSS physician.
Before Surgery
What kinds of tests will I need before surgery?
At NOSS, our primary goal is always the safety and well-being of our patients. To that end, up-to-date x-rays and imaging studies will be needed to clearly evaluate your condition before surgery. When surgery is recommended, patients will also be required to undergo a physical examination, routine laboratory blood tests, and often a chest x-ray and EKG. Family physicians and other treating specialists may be consulted to assist in the pre-operative assessment.
Will I need to donate blood before surgery?
For certain surgical procedures where blood transfusion might be required, donating your own is an option you may consider. Your own blood would be collected a few weeks before surgery, and kept on hand for your procedure. Please talk to your NOSS surgeon for more information about this option.
Are there any medicines I need to take before surgery?
In most cases, no special medication is needed before surgery. Your doctor will advise you if any medication is recommended before your individual procedure.
Are there any medications I need to stop taking before surgery?
It is important for you tell your NOSS surgeon about any medications you are currently taking. While most medications should be taken right up until the day before surgery, there are some that may need to be discontinued sooner. Talk to both your family physician and your NOSS surgeon about all prescription medications you take prior to your scheduled surgery.
At the Hospital
What should I bring to the hospital?
In most cases, patients will not need to bring anything with them to the hospital, but should wear comfortable, loose clothing and leave jewelry and other metal objects at home.
When should I arrive at the hospital for my surgery?
A member of the NOSS team or a hospital representative will contact patients one day prior to surgery to discuss all pre-operative instructions, including your scheduled arrival and scheduled surgery time.
Can my family stay with me during this time?
Your family will be able to stay with you throughout the preparations for your surgery, until you enter the operating room.
Will I be under anesthesia during the procedure?
Surgical operations are performed with different types of anesthesia. Your doctor and hospital anesthesiologist will discuss your options with you prior to surgery, and will recommend the best anesthesia option for your procedure.
Will the surgeon see my family immediately after surgery is completed?
Once your surgery is completed, your surgeon will speak to your waiting family members to inform them of the results. We understand the anxiety that your family may experience while you are undergoing surgery, and will provide you with the best information available at the earliest moment possible.
