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What to Expect the Day of Surgery [Podcast]

Posted June 30, 2024 by Heidi Mueller, RN

Surgical setting

Listen to this episode of Healthy Vitals Podcast.

Heidi Mueller, RN discusses how to prepare for surgery. She offers helpful information on steps to take leading up to the day, as well as how to prepare the day of surgery. 


Featured Guest:

Heidi Mueller, RN

Heidi is a nurse with over ten years of experience on varying units with surgical focus. She has worked for Summa since 2020. She currently works as a clinical nurse specialist intern for surgical services, and her focus is on patient care and nursing education in the perioperative environment.

 

Transcription:

Scott Webb (Host): Having surgery can be stressful, but my guest today is here to answer many of the questions folks have leading up to surgery. I'm joined today by Heidi Mueller, she's a Registered Nurse and Clinical Nurse Specialist Intern with Summa Health.


 This is Healthy Vitals, a podcast from Summa Health. I'm Scott Webb.


Heidi, it's so nice to have you here today. We're going to talk about what folks can expect on the day of surgery. And you and I were just sort of joking a little bit that you probably get these questions a lot. You probably answer these questions a lot. So hopefully now that it's in the form of a podcast, folks can, you know, click play, get the answers they need.


So let's start here. How can patients be as healthy as possible leading up to a scheduled surgery?


Heidi Mueller, RN: A couple of things that we recommend prior to coming in for your day of surgery, obviously we would recommend quitting smoking, if you're a current smoker, but if that's not in your plans for right now, reducing or at the very least not smoking on your day of surgery is one of our biggest recommendations. It can help your body really perform at its highest level, especially your lungs, during your procedure. If you are pursuing quitting smoking, please reach out to any of your healthcare professionals. We would be happy to assist you on your journey.


Good blood sugar control if you are someone who manages their blood sugar on a regular basis, really good blood sugar control on the day of surgery, will also assist your body in performing at its best. Getting a really nice healthy diet leading up to your surgery, low processed foods, nice, healthy, whole fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, things like that can give your body the energy it needs to take on the big day.


If you're not currently getting any routine physical activity, starting a very slow exercise program can help build up some strength. Again, to take on your big day, and then take all of your medications as you're prescribed, keeping in mind that that, may change, that your typical medication regimen may change, as you're leading up to or following the procedure, but taking good notes on your medication plan and taking all medications as prescribed.


Host: Yeah, that's perfect. It does seem that, you know, surgery, I mean, certainly there are traumatic events and last minute surgeries and things, but it does seem like usually folks have time, right, they have time to prepare a little bit and, as you say, cut back on smoking and sugar and, you know, maybe get a little exercise, right? Like, it's usually not oh, by the way, we're having surgery tomorrow. They usually have some time, right?


Heidi Mueller, RN: Absolutely. Yeah. Sometimes those events do come up where we need to expedite the process a little more, hurry it along. But most of the time, you have plenty of time to plan to make some lifestyle adjustments if needed. It's always a good time to, maybe prompt some lifestyle changes, when things like these come up.


Host: So what are some of the steps then that patients can take prior to scheduled surgery, just to be as prepared as possible?


Heidi Mueller, RN: Most of the times, I would say a majority of the patients will qualify for a pre admission testing appointment that's done at one of our Summa locations, either Akron or Barberton. We have an excellent pre admission testing department that will review your general health, perform a physical exam.


So we want to, make sure that you're attending those, because they are very important for assessing your readiness for your procedure. Coordinate a ride to and from the hospital, after your surgery. It will not be safe for you to drive home. So having a ride to get you on home, scheduled ahead of time, will be very important.


Prepare your home for return. So having a nice, quiet, comfortable, safe space to return to that will promote your healing. Having things in reach and ready to go will ahead of time will I think save a lot of stress after your return. We'll have you shower on the morning of surgery using a special medicated soap if it is ordered.


Not all procedures order it, but in general, everyone should shower the morning of their procedure. And then we would advise against the use of deodorant, perfumes, lotions, things like that on the morning of your procedure. And then plan your medication schedule. So if there are going to be any changes to your medication regimen, having that planned out, if there's any special medications you need to take or add, leading up to your procedure, having that planned out, I think will help you be prepared when you're going into a scheduled procedure.


Host: Yeah, no, I've never had any surgeries, knock on a fake Ikea wood, I guess. Uh, but I've known my wife and other family members. And this always seems, this next question always seems to be the one you know, that comes up the most is what do I bring with me to the hospital? What's okay to bring with me? What am I going to need, you know, on the day of surgery?


Heidi Mueller, RN: Absolutely, yeah. I usually go with less is more. Keep all of your valuables, jewelry, remove all jewelry if possible. All of your valuables, go ahead and leave at home so that someone doesn't have to keep track of that on your behalf. And it doesn't have to be a stress for you on your day of your procedure, but I would recommend bringing a photo ID and a copy of your insurance card if applicable and then a living will or power of attorney paperwork if that applies to you as well.


If, if we already have a copy, it should be in your records or if anything has changed or you haven't brought that in yet, go ahead and bring that for us on the day of surgery. Other than that, a list of your current medications is always helpful, when you took them last, how you typically take them, any changes that may have come up recently. We recommend you wearing loose fitting clothing, something nice and comfortable on the day of the procedure. Slip on shoes are typically very helpful for people, as long as it's safe for you to walk, to and from the car, but slip on shoes are usually pretty easy and comfortable for coming to and from the hospital.


And then I would work with your medical team if you should bring, say for example, a CPAP machine, any supplies for any implanted medical devices you may have, any implant cards for any devices. See if those would be needed or would be utilized during your procedure day.


Host: Yeah. Yeah. Always good to just, you know, and if people are in doubt, they can always ask, right? They can ask you and others, uh, what do I need? What can bring? But this is a great sort of to do list here today. And as you say, you know, avoid the laces if you can. Use slip on shoes.


So what can patients expect on the day of surgery?


Heidi Mueller, RN: The hospital is going to call you with an arrival time ahead of time. So, make sure you're not blocking any unknown numbers, or if you see one that may be from the hospital, make sure you're taking those calls as we will give you an arrival time. Typically, depending on the location of your procedure, that'll be about two hours before your scheduled start time.


You'll arrive about two hours ahead of time. Make sure you have a ride kind of scheduled and ready for you. Once, it's time to begin in the preparation, you'll be escorted back to a private room. Any family members, friends that you have with you, can accompany you as well.


There'll be an assessment by a nurse, by your anesthesia team and by other surgical team members, in addition to your primary operating surgeon. They're going to ask you a lot of questions, lots and lots of questions. A lot of them may be repetitive. It's not because we're not communicating with each other. It's not because we haven't documented them appropriately. It's because we want to make sure that we're all on the same page and we hear that information directly from you. So, again, a lot of questions, some of them may be repeating, but we do repeat them for a reason for your safety to make sure we're all confirming the information we all have.


You'll have an IV placed so that we can administer medications, the anesthesia, and, any IV fluids that you may need. And during that preoperative time, there may be some preoperative medications that you'll be given as well, we may give those to you as well.


So, after you're all set to go, you will be escorted back to the procedure area by your anesthesia team or members of your surgical team. You'll get to meet everyone that'll be in the room ahead of time and we will take great care of you while you're undergoing your procedure.


Host: Yeah, that was my experience with the others who have had surgery, like my son and wife and everyone else I know, is, there's lots of questions and there's lots of repeating, but it's not because folks aren't listening. It's because everyone just wants to make sure that they're on the same page, especially about medications and things like that, right?


Heidi Mueller, RN: Exactly. Yeah, we're not doing it to be difficult or because we're not communicating with each other. We want to confirm that we are all on the same page for the patient's safety.


Scott Webb: Yeah, that's perfect. It's been really helpful today. I just want to finish up and find out, you touched on this a little bit, but when folks come home and planning for that return home, what do they need to do?


Heidi Mueller, RN: Yeah, I find that's one thing that we worry so much about leading up to the procedure or the day of surgery that we tend to overlook what's going to happen afterwards. So, having a ride home arranged is going to be very important. We want to have that information.


 If it's going to be someone that's going to be picking you up, having that contact information, or if they're going to be there with you, we'll keep them updated throughout your day. But having a ride home arranged, like I said, it will not be safe for patients after having a procedure done to drive home themselves.


 If you do need public transportation, a cab, a ride share, anything like that, we will require that another adult who has not had surgery that day to be present for your trip home. Make sure you get home nice and safe. You may be going home with some prescriptions, some medications, and our meds to beds program can, typically deliver those to you prior to going home so you don't have to make a stop.


We would just have you plan if your insurance company requires any co pays for any of those medications. Typically they're symptom management medications. Such as for pain or nausea, we would recommend that you work with your insurance company to figure out if there are co pays ahead of time and then kind of have some cash or a card on hand if you would like to utilize our meds to beds program prior to even leaving the hospital that day.


 When you return home, I recommend having a nice place to rest and recover all set to go. Keep in mind that you may have some activity restrictions or lifting restrictions, so maybe getting the laundry done or vacuuming done ahead of time will help minimize the strain placed on you after surgery.


Having those things done and out of the way so you can focus on your rest and recovery. Having all of your necessities within reach, maybe a landing spot where you're going to be taking that first really nice nap after returning home with all of your necessities within reach for you. And then if there are no contraindications to having some over the counter pain medications, typically we would recommend to most patients, unless there's a reason not to take them, to have some ibuprofen or acetaminophen on hand at home, that can be used for pain management after surgery and your surgical team and the post operative nurses would go over all of those with you prior to ever leaving the procedure area that day. So those are kind of some of the things that I would do prior to the day of surgery to make sure that I have a good spot to return home.


Host: Yeah, and maybe just have Netflix, you know, queued up right on Bridgerton.


Heidi Mueller, RN: Queued up, all logged in.


Host: Just, just, yeah,


Heidi Mueller, RN: try to think of your password.


Host: Just go ahead and hit play. Uh, this has been really great today. Really helpful. You know, there's these sort of common questions that folks have, and they don't always have the opportunity to host a podcast like I do.


So, great to ask you these questions. Great that you have the answers. Thanks so much.


Heidi Mueller, RN: Thank you very much. I appreciate it.


Host: And for more information, go to summahealth.org/surgeryprep.


 And if you enjoyed this episode of Healthy Vitals, we'd love it if you'd leave us a review. Your review helps others find our educational content. I'm Scott Webb. Thanks for listening, and we'll talk again next time.

 

About the Author

Heidi Mueller, RN

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While most people with COVID-19 recover and return to normal health within a few weeks, others have symptoms that linger for months after recovery. Even people who have had mild versions of the virus can experience persistent or late symptoms. These people are often referred to as "long haulers" and the condition has been termed post-COVID syndrome or "long COVID-19."

Summa Health's Project SEARCH helps young adults with disabilities gain employment

Summa Health is helping to educate and employ young adults with disabilities one student at a time through Project SEARCH.

Since 2005, Summa Health has partnered with the Six District Educational Compact, a regional collaborative that provides career-technical education programs, to offer high-school students a one-year, school-to-work transition program on-site. Modeled after the growing Project SEARCHnational program, the initiative is designed to help qualified students…

Maternal Health in the Black Community [Podcast]

Dr. Cheryl Johnson leads a discussion focusing on empowerment in the African American community, especially maternal health.

Testicular Cancer: An Overview from Prevention to Treatment [Podcast]

Dr. Dankoff provides an overview of testicular cancer. Learn about symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.

What Makes a Great Doctor - Personal Insights, Advice, and Why they Chose Medicine [Podcast]

Dr. Shanu Agarwal and resident Kortnie Broschinsky discuss their journey into healthcare.

What Makes a Great Doctor - Personal Insights, Advice, and Why they Chose Medicine [Podcast]

Dr. Shanu Agarwal and resident Kortnie Broschinsky discuss their journey into healthcare.

Occupational Therapy: What Is It, How Does It Help, Who Should See An OT [Podcast]

Craig Wood leads a discussion focusing on occupational therapy, its benefits, and why he got into the field.

Our Commitment to Creating a Healthier Community [Podcast]

Iriel Hopkins and Marlo Schmidt discuss ways in which Summa Health System contributes to a healthier community.

Travel plans? Check out these tips for preventing and treating motion sickness

Have you ever walked off a boat, stepped off a rollercoaster or gotten out of a car only to feel nauseous, dizzy and otherwise awful?  That’s motion sickness.  Anyone can experience it — one in three people do in their lifetime, in fact — but it’s most common in children and pregnant women.

Typically, motion sickness occurs with any form of travel, whether by car, bus, train, airplane or boat.  Sometimes amusement rides can cause it, too.…

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome – What You Need to Know [Podcast]

Karen Frantz DeSeptis and Ericka Malone lead a discussion on SIDS, and important information you need to know.

An Overview of Osteoporosis: Prevention to Treatment [Podcast]

Natalie Hiltbrand, an Osteoporosis Specialist at Summa Health, leads a discussion on osteoporosis treatment, as well as prevention.

Dos and Dont's to safely care for cuts and scrapes at home

Cuts from household items, such as knives, broken glass or needles, are commonplace. All it takes is a slip of the knife during meal prep or a broken glass while cleaning up and suddenly, you’re bleeding. Now what?

Immediately apply pressure on the area with a tissue, gauze pad or clean cloth to stop any bleeding. It should stop after a few minutes, so don’t remove the gauze until you’ve applied pressure for two to three minutes. Removing the cloth too soon…

Why is it so important to understand your family health history?

You may have heard someone comment on a shared feature that you have with a family member, or heard someone is the spitting image of a relative.  It’s true family members share similar looks, but they also share genes — which aren’t as easy to see. For instance, you may be unaware that you also share your great-grandmother’s increased risk for heart disease.

When it comes to your health, knowing your family’s traits that you can’t see…

5 tips for safeguarding your home against preventable accidents

When you think of home, you often think of it as your safe haven from the outside world. It’s your safe space you get to return to every night.

The sobering reality, however, is more than 50 percent of unintentional injuries happen in or around the home, according to the National Security Council (NSC). People of certain ages, especially young children and the elderly, are more susceptible to serious injury from household hazards.

The good news is many of them are…

The Importance of Knowing Your Family Health History [Podcast]

Dr. Lynn Hamrich discusses why it is important to know the health history in your family.

All About Gestational Diabetes [Podcast]

Healthy VitalsDr. Katherine Wolfe discusses gestational diabetes.

10 ways to stop and prevent nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are very common and can strike at any time. While they can look scary with blood trickling out your nose, the good news is nosebleeds are rarely serious.

But you may be wondering, what is causing this messy nuisance?

There are many reasons why you could be getting nosebleeds. The most common cause is dry air. During the winter months, dry household heat and cold, dry air outside can irritate nasal membranes and trigger nosebleeds.

Other reasons for nosebleeds can…

Addressing Common Pelvic Health Issues [Podcast]

Dr. Megan Cesta and senior physical therapist Amy Senn discuss common pelvic health issues women may experience.

Finding pain relief for your autoimmune disease

Chronic, severe pain from autoimmune diseases can have a detrimental impact on your health, work and relationships. When you’re suffering from chronic pain day in and day out, it’s only natural that you become less active, antisocial, moody and find it difficult to sleep.  

Not to mention, the stress, anxiety and even depression that comes from dealing with pain can make it even worse.

Autoimmune diseases are a chronic condition in which your immune system…

Why is it so important to get your flu shot this year?

Last winter, the community took several precautions to help stop the spread of COVID-19. From masks and social distancing to virtual work and school to cancelled events, an unforeseen positive side effect was a less intense flu season.  

Flu cases documented during last year’s flu season were historically low by a wide margin. Medical professionals haven’t seen anything like it.  

So with many precautions still in place amidst an ongoing pandemic, you may be…

Do's and Don'ts for Campfire Safety and Burn Prevention

Updated June 2025

For many, summertime is not complete until one activity has been done—a campfire! From gooey s’mores and roasted hot dogs to sharing ghost stories, campfires are a sure-fire way to get into the summery spirit, all while surrounded by family and friends.

Unfortunately, a burn from the campfire can quickly put a damper on those summertime memories. As one of the most dangerous activities without the proper burn prevention and protocols in place,…

Summer Safety: Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke could save a life

Summer often brings some much-needed fun in the sun. But as temperatures and humidity rise, so do the dangers of heat illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 600 people are killed by extreme heat every year in this country.

Infants and people aged 65 or older, especially those with chronic conditions, are most at risk for heat illness. However, it can affect anyone, even young athletes and those in good physical condition.

The good news…

Is working from home a pain in the neck — literally?

Many agree one positive that has come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is the work-from-home order to prevent further spread. No more long commutes and fighting traffic, more time spent with family and less interruption from chitchat around the water cooler.
 
In the United States, it’s estimated nearly 50 percent of the working population is now working at home. But as more and more companies embrace remote working for the long haul, one negative has emerged: new or…

Thyroid disease 101: Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications

The thyroid gland has an important job to do in the body. It produces thyroid hormones that help regulate metabolism and the body’s overall temperature. Metabolism is a process that turns food into energy, which is vital to keeping all of our body systems working correctly. This small, but mighty gland impacts just about every area of the body, including heart function, digestive function, muscle control, mood and brain development.
 
The thyroid gland is a small,…

Urologic cancers 101: Be in the know so you can catch it early

Bladder cancer is the most common urologic cancer in both men and women. Each year, about 57,000 men and 18,000 women are diagnosed with the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

But, urologic cancers don’t only affect the bladder. They also can affect the kidneys, ureter (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder), urethra, and specifically in men, the penis, prostate and testicles.

In fact, the CDC states prostate…

Cold feet: Common winter foot problems and ways to avoid them

Winter is upon us — freezing temperatures, snow flurries and whipping winds — and we all know what that means. It’s time to bust out our heavy, winter coats, hats, gloves and scarves to keep us warm on these frigid days. But, don’t forget about your feet, too. It’s important to always wear winter shoes and boots to protect them against the harsh elements.

Lower temperatures can be hard on your extremities, especially your feet. Exposure to cold air causes the body to slow…

All About Sleep Apnea [Podcast]

Dr. James Bavis & Dr. Ketan Deoras explain sleep apnea as well as signs, symptoms, and what to expect.

Breast Cancer: The Importance of Knowing Your Risk [Podcast]

Dr. Keristen Brantley & Dr. Victoria Van Fossen discuss Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment.

Alzheimer’s Awareness: Symptoms, Stages, and Support [Podcast]

Amanda Harvan sheds light on the symptoms, stages and support of Alzheimer's.

Men’s Well-Being: All About Prostate Health [Podcast]

Dr. Kevin Spear discusses men's health and different risk factors and how to ensure optimal well-being.

The Latest Updates on COVID-19 [Podcast]

Dr. Thomas File shares the latest updates on COVID-19.

Family preparedness: How to help keep your loved ones safe if disaster strikes

Planning ahead of time for disaster—whether it’s natural or manmade—is the best protection for you and your family. From house fires to infectious disease outbreaks to tornadoes, disasters unfortunately can and do happen—striking at any time, with little to no notice. 

Unfortunately, only about 39 percent of people have developed an emergency plan on what to do as a family if something goes wrong, according to the Centers for Disease Control and…

Can Obesity be Considered a Disease [Podcast]

Dr. Adrian Dan discusses obesity as a metabolic disease.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Illness [Podcast]

Emily Hionides-Horner discusses 7 ways to overcome mental health stigma.

The Modern Guide to Heart Health [Podcast]

Dr. Peter Bittenbender shares his insight on the modern guide to heart health.

Tips on Maintaining Fitness and Physical Health During the Pandemic [Podcast]

Dr. Cipriani discusses tips on maintaining physician health during the pandemic.

Tips for Managing Anxiety [Podcast]

Dr. Leslie Zaynor discusses tips for managing anxiety.

6 reasons why your wound won't heal

You know the saying, “Time heals all wounds.”? Unfortunately, that’s not necessarily true. Chronic wounds can linger for weeks, even months, and in many cases don’t heal without medical intervention. 

A wound is considered chronic if it has not healed significantly in four weeks or completely in eight weeks. If you’re suffering from a wound or sore that isn’t showing any signs of healing, talk to your doctor. If left untreated, chronic…

Get the Facts on Cyberchondria

Suddenly, you wake up in the middle of the night with a bellyache. It starts off as a dull pain, but then quickly intensifies and seems to move down your torso. So, you immediately jump on your computer or phone to search for various conditions you could be suffering from. Could it be a stomach virus, or maybe an ulcer or worse yet, stomach cancer?

If this sounds familiar, you may be suffering from cyberchondria. It’s a hybrid term for cyberspace and hypochondria (now…

Hand Washing Do's and Don'ts

One of the best and most effective ways to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others is by washing your hands properly and often. It doesn’t take much time or effort and offers a very effective means of preventing the spread of illnesses ranging from viruses like cold and flu to other bacteria or viruses. As you touch people, surfaces and objects throughout the day, you gather germs on your hands. You can infect yourself with these germs by touching your face;…

7 Serious Health Concerns Affecting African Americans

Updated April 2025 by Shivonne Suttles, M.D.

According to the CDC, the death rate for African Americans has declined more than 25 percent over the past 17 years, especially for those 65-years and older. However, new research shows younger African Americans are living with or dying from diseases most often found in Caucasians much later in life.

The African American community should be aware of a few serious health concerns that statistically affect them at higher rates. If you…

6 Questions You Should Be Asking Your PCP

Your primary care provider (PCP) should be your partner in ensuring you are your best and healthiest self, which is why it is so important to have a strong and communicative relationship with them. When you meet with your PCP for a checkup or an annual visit, the provider typically has a limited amount of time they can spend with you, so it’s important you go in prepared with a list of questions to get the most out of your appointment. Here are a few questions you…

A Guide to Your Health in the Heat - UV Index and Air Quality Index Explained

We’re in the depths of summer heat, and as the heat rises, so does the threat of air pollution and the dangers of UV rays. Globally, extreme temperature events are increasing in frequency, duration and magnitude, which means it will become even more important to protect yourself and your family’s health from rising temperatures and extreme heat. 

While there are many factors to keep an eye on as temperatures rise, there are two numbers right within your local…

Common Summertime Hazards to Avoid

Summer’s finally here and we’re all about having fun in the sun – but with the heat, summer often brings along some bumps and bruises. Here are a few tips on how to avoid common summer hazards so you can keep the good times rolling.

Mosquito Bites:

Those itchy little bites can be more than just annoying – mosquitos can carry diseases like West Nile virus. Travel is common in the summer and mosquito bites in other areas of North America can also put you…

7 Everyday Items that Increase Sun Sensitivity

Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer in the US and with summer sun on the horizon, proper protection should be priority number one. While you should practice sun safety year round, you should monitor your sun exposure closer during these longer, hotter days.

Sunscreen, long sleeves and a hat are the easiest ways to protect your skin, but did you know there are common everyday items that could increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun?

5 Types of Integrative Medicine You Can Do at Home

Yearly visits to your primary care physician are an important part of a healthy lifestyle plan. Another form of care known as integrative medicine should be an additional resource you consider when building a complete lifestyle plan. Sometimes confused with other treatment options like complementary or alternative, integrative medicine puts the patient at the center of both physical and mental health by expanding treatment options. However, all three of these terms refer to different types of care.

Battling Bladder Control: Male and Female Incontinence

Normally associated more with females than males, urinary incontinence affects at least 25 million Americans each year. And while 75 percent are female, the issue can affect any person, at any age.

Interesting fact: Incontinence is not a disease, it is always a symptom or cause of something else. There are at least 4 different types of incontinence and a host of causes and issues that can cause bladder leakage.

4 Questions to Ask Your Primary Care Physician When Prescribed New Medication

According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 25 percent of new prescriptions are never filled at the pharmacy. Even more staggering is the fact that medication is not taken as prescribed up to 50 percent of the time. Before your primary care physician (PCP) prescribes any medication, we review all medical history, possible allergies and evaluate and treat the cause for your visit.

There are many different reasons a PCP may prescribe new medication:

  • A…

The Power of Vitamin D

You may have heard of the health benefits of vitamin D in the fight against the common cold.

A British investigation published in February 2017 concluded that taking vitamin D supplements can help protect against respiratory infections like colds, bronchitis and pneumonia. The researchers looked at data from 25 clinical trials involving some 11,000 patients from 14 countries and found a significant but modest benefit. These results occurred mostly among those…

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