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Implant Procedure
If you choose to
have your implant performed by an SPI physician, we will work
with you to arrange a convenient time for a return trip to Seattle - a
minimum of three days will be necessary. Hospitalization is not required
and most of our patients stay in a nearby hotel.
Day 1: On the first day, patients undertake some simple
preparations for their implant the following day. This mainly involves making
some dietary modifications and taking laxatives. In addition, those patients
whose implants are scheduled for early the next morning will also have to
undergo some routine testing and lab work at Swedish Medical Center.
Day 2: The implant takes place on
the second day in the out-patient surgery unit of Swedish Medical Center.
From registration through discharge from the hospital, the entire process
takes about five hours. After you leave the hospital, you can relax at
your hotel for the rest of the day or, if you feel up to it (as many of
our patients do), you can take a leisurely walk, go out to dinner, and
generally enjoy the city.
Day 3: On the third day, a CT scan and x-rays are taken to evaluate
the seed placement. Most patients return home on the third or fourth day.
Follow-Up Care: Your ongoing, follow-up care can be provided by
your doctor at home. Before you leave Seattle, you will be given
instructions on the frequency and content of your post-implant monitoring.
Your SPI physician will write to your doctor at home summarizing your
treatment and making appropriate recommendations concerning follow-up
care.
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