Evening Orders

For most procedures it is necessary for you to have an empty stomach so that the chances of regurgitating any undigested food or liquids is greatly reduced. Some anesthetics suspend your normal reflexes so that your body's automatic defenses may not be working. For example, your lungs normally are protected from objects, such as undigested food, from entering them. However, this natural protection does not occur while you are anesthetized.

So, for your safety you may be told to fast (no food or liquids) before surgery. For your own safety, it is very important that you follow these instructions carefully about fasting and medications; if not it may be necessary to postpone surgery.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists has recommended the following practice guidelines with respect to preoperative fasting (nothing by mouth). MDA strictly adheres to these guidelines for all elective cases requiring anesthesia or sedation.

The majority of MDA-affiliated surgical facilities will request that patients take nothing by mouth either after midnight or for 8 hours prior to surgery. It is important to remember that your surgery may take place prior to the scheduled time, so you may want to start your fast earlier than the times recommended below to anticipate such scheduling changes.

ASA Perioperative Fasting Guidelines

• Clear Liquids

  It is appropriate to fast from intake of clear liquids for 2 or more hours. Examples of clear liquids include, but are not limited to, water, fruit juices without pulp, carbonated beverages, clear tea, and black coffee. These liquids should not include alcohol. The volume of liquid ingested is less important than the type of liquid ingested.

• Breast Milk

  It is appropriate to fast from intake of breast milk for 4 or more hours.

• Infant Formula

  It is appropriate to fast from intake of infant formula for 6 or more hours.

• Solids and Non-Human Milk

  It is appropriate to fast from intake of a light meal or non-human milk for 6 or more hours. It is important to note that the intake of fried or fatty foods or meat may prolong gastric emptying time, and may require a longer fasting period.