FAQs

What if I have problems or concerns after office hours?

Atlantic Surgical Associates offers 24 hour coverage for any urgencies or emergencies through our answering service at 603-431-5242.  Refills of medications, particularly any controlled substances, must be addressed during normal business hours.

Who do I call for any billing concerns?

ECHO — 1-800-274-9185.

What types of Anesthesia are available for my surgery?

In the Office:
Local anesthetic consists of an injection (with a tiny needle) to numb the area of concern.  Sometimes this is completely painless, and other times this medication may sting a little prior to quickly taking effect.  Allergies to these medications are rare, but please inform your surgeon prior to the planned procedure date if you feel you may have an allergy. 

Oral Sedation may be planned and usually involves a dose of valium and/or a narcotic pain medication which is typically taken 30–45 minutes prior to the scheduled time of the procedure.  If you opt for this type of sedation, you must have a responsible adult accompany you home after the procedure for several hours.  Do not plan anything important that day, and do not plan to drive for at least 8 hours.

At the Hospital or Surgery Center:
Local anesthetic, as described above.
Oral sedation, as described above.
Intravenous sedation requires an IV and may be administered in repeat doses as needed until adequate, safe sedation has been achieved.  As with oral sedation or general anesthesia, you must have a responsible adult accompany you home after the procedure for several hours.  Do not plan anything important that day, and do not plan to drive for at least 8 hours.

Deep sedation or General Anesthesia is administered by a qualified Anesthetist or Anesthesiologist.  The effects of these medications may be longer lasting.  As with oral and intravenous sedation, you must have a responsible adult accompany you home after the procedure for several hours.  Do not plan anything important that day, and do not plan to drive for at least 8 hours.

What do I need to know before surgery?

  • A responsible adult must accompany you if you have any sedation associated with any procedure.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your planned procedure if you are having sedation or general anesthesia.
  • Avoid aspirin (or products containing aspirin, such as Excedrin or fiorinol) and ibuprofen a week prior to your procedure unless instructed otherwise.
  • If you are on any other type of blood thinners, discuss this with your physician as you may be required to stop or modify these.
  • Please contact us if you have any new illnesses or fevers within a week prior to your surgery.

How do I handle my incision(s) after a minor procedure?

  • A small amount of bleeding is normal, and it is best to keep the wound covered with sterile gauze until this has ceased.  In the uncommon event of soaking of the bandage, replace the gauze and apply pressure and ice for 15 minutes or so.
  • Do not shower for 24–48 hours after the procedure, and do not submerge until cleared by your surgeon.
  • Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following:  (the on-call physician may be reached at any hour in an emergency)
    • Continued bleeding despite pressure
    • Redness, swelling, or purulence from the wound
    • Fever >101 degrees
    • Excessive pain
  • Ask your surgeon about any particular activity restrictions.

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