Surgery Information

Dr. Mark Getelman strives to provide patients with a relaxed and structured setting for all orthopedic and sports injury procedures. Southern California Orthopedic Institute offers state-of-the-art computer systems, medical equipment and surgical instruments for highly effective treatment outcomes.

If surgery is recommended by Dr. Getelman, he will provide a set of written guidelines for pre-operative, post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

Pre-Operative Guidelines

Do not consume food or liquids after midnight on the evening prior to your surgery date due to complications associated with anesthesia. This includes mints and chewing gum. Additionally, we recommend that you do not smoke, chew tobacco or consume alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your surgery.
Stop taking all herbal remedies, aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Naproxen, etc.) seven days prior to surgery unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Getelman. However, it is acceptable to take Tylenol (acetaminophen) if something is needed for pain. You may take your usual morning blood pressure, heart, acid reflux and/or seizure medications on the morning of surgery with a sip of water. If you are currently taking a prescription blood thinner (Coumadin, Plavix, etc.) on a regular basis for heart problems or stroke, please call Dr. Getelman’s office for further instructions.
Have someone available to take you home. You will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours following the procedure.
Do not drink or eat anything in the car on the trip home. The combination of anesthesia, food and car motion may cause nausea or vomiting. After arriving home, wait until you are hungry before attempting to eat. Begin with a light meal and try to avoid greasy food for the first 24 hours.
If you had surgery on the lower extremity (leg or knee), keep that extremity elevated. For shoulder surgery the arm will remain in the sling. All patients are encouraged to use ice as directed by Dr. Getelman.
Take your pain medicine as directed. Begin the pain medicine as you start getting uncomfortable, but before you are in severe pain.

Mark Getelman, MD

Average rating:

123 reviews

John P

Aug 14, 2024

by John P on Mark Getelman, MD

I am so eternally thankful for Dr. Getelman’s skillful repair of my right shoulder. Pain is mostly absent. Limitations are great, as far as weight bearing and quick muscle movements, but the absence of pain has greatly made sleep, reaching for items, using a kitchen knife once again, washing my hair and brushing my teeth "normal" once more.

His time and expertise on my surgery is much appreciated.

To think about the quality of some regularity he will return to the next patient from a truly grateful past candidate.

Thank you Doctor, for your steady hand and complex, complicated, compassionate repair.

Sincerely,

John P.

Steven

Apr 30, 2018

by Steven on Mark Getelman, MD

Shoulder Rotator cuff pantient

Dr. Getelman and his assistant Katie did an excellent job on my rotator cuff surgery April 12, 2017. The shoulder needed an extensive amount of work. I took PT (physical therapy) very seriously the following four months. Due to a successful surgery and a lot of PT I was able to get all my range of motion back and great strength. I also approved on how efficient the office staff are. I am very thankful to all that helped me.

Anonymous

Apr 12, 2018

by Anonymous on Mark Getelman, MD

They are very knowledgeable and professional.

I had an excellent experience with Dr. Getelman and his staff. They are very knowledgeable and professional.

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Pre-Operative Guidelines

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