Centra now offers the da Vinci Surgical System for the treatment of prostate cancer surgery.  Read more about this service here.  Centra Health maintains a tradition of excellence in surgical care, offering a full range of surgical services including:

• Anesthesia
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• ENT/Otolaryngology
• Gastroenterology
• General
• Gynecology
• Ophthalmology
• Oral Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Sinus Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Urology
• Vascular Surgery

Ambulatory Surgery
Ambulatory surgery procedures are performed at both Lynchburg General Hospital and Virginia Baptist Hospital. Patients generally return home the same day as their surgery. Procedures can be performed under general anesthesia, as well as regional or local anesthesia, spinal/epidural anesthesia or intravenous sedation.

Preoperative Education & Testing Service
Up to two weeks before surgery, patients can undergo diagnostic testing, clinical profile assessment, documentation of history and physical, and/or anesthesia consultation. A Clinical Preoperative Nurse Educator coordinates the services.

Before Surgery
Your physician may schedule you to have tests before your surgery. These tests may include a blood sample, a urine specimen, and EKG, and possibly a chest X-ray. Allow at least an hour to complete the preadmission testing. During this visit, you will receive instructions about your surgery and what you should expect the day of surgery.

What to Bring

• Your physician's orders
• Insurance card
• Social security number of the patient
• Medications
• List of allergies

The Day of Surgery
Our staff will prepare you for your surgery and take you to the operating room. After your surgery, you will return to your room to rest before going home.

While you are in surgery, your family will be instructed where to wait. Your physician or one of your nurses will talk to your family after your surgery.

Preparing for Your Surgery

• Do not eat or drink after midnight the evening before your surgery unless your physician gives you other instructions. This includes gum, candy, mints, cigarettes, water, and coffee.
• Arrive at the hospital at least two hours before your surgery.
• Do not wear contact lenses. If it is absolutely necessary to wear them, bring a storage case.
• Do not wear make-up or nail polish.
• Bring all medications you are currently taking. Bring the medications in the original prescription containers. Do not discontinue any medications unless you are told to by your physician.
• Leave valuables, such as rings, watches, earrings, pocketbooks, wallets, and money at home.
• Make arrangements to have someone drive you home after surgery and to be with you at home after surgery.
• Wear comfortable clothing, shoes, and socks.