While your doctor will look after most of the abnormalities noted above, there is a lot you as a patient can do to improve the outcome of the operation.
First, if you smoke, stop. Whether or not you intend to stop forever (which is always beneficial), you should stop as soon as the decision to operate is made. Lung and breathing problems are the most common type of complication after surgery and they can be minimized if the pulmonary system is working well. Clearing the lungs for as many days as possible before surgery will significantly improve your chances of not developing these problems.
Second, become as physically fit as possible. This will make both the operation and your recovery a lot easier. Eating appropriately and losing weight if you are overweight will also help. And any form of exercise, including walking, will be beneficial because it improves both circulation and pulmonary function.
Third, make sure to discuss with the surgeon the details of the operation and what you can expect afterward. Knowledge of the hospital, the intensive care unit, the staff and the procedures to be followed will help you prepare for the operation emotionally.
Fourth, discuss the use of blood. Most major surgery requires administering blood and there is some risk involved, albeit a small one. That risk can be completely abolished if you use your own blood. If your blood count is high enough and the state of your tumor permits, it may be appropriate to store your own blood two weeks before surgery so it can be returned to you if needed ( see Blood Transfusions & Cancer Treatment ).
