Food and liquid restrictions before surgery

These directions are based on your scheduled arrival time. Not following these directions could mean your surgery will be delayed or canceled.

Alcohol and tobacco: 24 hours

  • Do not drink any alcohol 24 hours before your scheduled arrival time.
  • Do not smoke, vape, use chewing tobacco or use any other tobacco products up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival time. 

Solid foods: 8 hours

  • Eat up to 8 hours before your scheduled arrival time.
    • Eat light meals such as oatmeal or toast.
    • Do not eat foods that are heavy or high in fat such as meat or fried foods.

Clear liquids: 2 hours

  • Drink only clear liquids up to 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time.
    • Drink water, fruit juice without pulp (such as cranberry juice or apple juice), black coffee, clear pop or tea, or clear sport drinks (such as Gatorade® or Powerade®).
    • Do not have milk, yogurt or energy drinks (such as Red Bull® or Monster Energy®).

Medicines

  • Take your medicines as directed with a small sip of water.

Source: Allina Health's Patient Education Department, Knee Replacement, seventh edition, ortho-ah-90140
First Published: 10/01/2000
Last Reviewed: 02/01/2020