If you are scheduled to undergo heart valve or aneurysm surgery you will need a dental
clearance letter from your dentist prior to your surgery. If you have not seen a dentist in the past
6 months you will need to get a pre-operative dental exam. You can have your dentist fax us a
clearance letter to 732-235-8963.
The Flu Shot:
If your surgery has been electively scheduled, meaning you are waiting at home for your
scheduled surgery, you may have the opportunity to discuss with your primary care doctor
whether you are a candidate for the flu and/or pneumonia vaccine. The Cardiac Surgery team
recommends that you obtain these vaccinations, if appropriate, at least 2 weeks prior to your
upcoming surgery. The flu vaccine usually becomes available in the beginning of October of
each year. To be properly protected, you must be vaccinated yearly.
The pneumonia shot will prevent you from a potential secondary infection of the flu
(Pneumococcal pneumonia). You will be asked on admission to the hospital if you have
received these vaccines. If you have not and it is appropriate, the Advanced Practice Providers
can order the injections to be given prior to your discharge from the hospital.
Blood Transfusions:
The possibility for blood transfusions during surgery is also a concern for many patients and
families. Any blood that you may lose during your surgery is collected through special
equipment, filtered, and returned to your circulation. A small
percentage of patients will require blood transfusions. Your
family members may want to be designated blood donors for
you. You may contact our blood center at 732-235-8100 for
more information. Donations are by appointment only.
Questions???
If you have any questions before and after your surgery, you may contact one of the Cardiac
Surgery Clinical Coordinators Monday thru Friday 8:00 am-4:00 pm.
Jen Gopez, APN: (908) 239-5492 or Jennifer.Gopez@rwjuh.edu,
Lina Shi, APN: (732) 354-2848 or Lina.Shi@rwjuh.edu
Christine Savarese, APN: (732) 673-7746 or Christine.Savarese@rwjuh.edu
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