Your doctor may ask you to have these tests:

• Blood tests (complete blood count, electrolytes, or liver tests)
• Upper endoscopy. Almost all people who have this procedure have already had this test. If you have not, you will need to.
• Other tests, such as manometry (to measure gases) or pH monitoring (to see how much stomach acid is in your esophagus).

Always tell your doctor or nurse if:

• You could be pregnant
• You are taking any drugs, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription

During the week before your surgery:

• You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), vitamin E, clopidogrel (Plavix), warfarin (Coumadin), and any other drugs or supplements that affect blood clotting several days to a week before surgery.
• Ask your doctor which drugs you should still take on the day of your surgery.

On the day of your surgery:

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
• Take your drugs your doctor told you to take with a small sip of water.
• Shower the night before or the morning of your surgery.
• Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.