This is a great question! Thank you for asking it so that you and others can benefit from knowing that medication does not prohibit you from having surgery, but it is something that is very important to share with your surgeon so that they can give you the right information about the medications you take (whether prescribed or non-prescribed) so that you are kept safe before, during and after your surgery!We commend you for asking a question that many patients shy away from due to embarrassment or fear of what others may think. Oxycodone and other pain medications are under high scrutiny at this time because there are cases of abuse, and this makes it difficult for those who rely on them for effective pain management. You've avoided a very dangerous situation of not informing your doctor...a situation which could put your safety in jeopardy if they were not aware of it. Some medications can safely be stopped before surgery, others cannot. Some need to be, and others do not. It is critical to share all drugs, medications and over-the-counter products you use so that you can take the appropriate steps. Oxycodone, when prescribed in a situation like yours, is one that your doctor would most probably have you continue because it is one that you do not want to stop abruptly. Knowing that you are on it will help your surgeon and the anesthesiologist to administer your anesthesia appropriately. It will also help them know what type of post-operative medications to prescribe so that any pain you experience is handled well.
