Patient Resources

Pre-operative instructions, recovery guides, and reference materials for EliteCare patients. Everything you need to prepare for surgery and recover with confidence.

Schedule a Consultation Call (301) 215-0127

Resources Designed Around Your Care

When Dr. Zahiri founded EliteCare, one of the priorities was making sure patients went into surgery informed and came home with clear, written guidance for every stage of recovery. The materials on this page reflect that commitment. If you are scheduled for surgery, you will receive printed copies of the relevant guides at your pre-operative visit. The versions here are available to download, reference, and share with family members or caregivers helping with your recovery. If you have questions about anything in these materials, call our office at (301) 215-0127.

Patient Guides

Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

A complete patient guide for AWR patients, covering preparation at home, what to expect at the hospital, the day after surgery, recovery at home, drain care, pain management, follow-up appointments, and what you should know about mesh. This is the comprehensive guide we provide to every AWR patient at their pre-operative visit.

Download the AWR Patient Guide (PDF)

Nissen Fundoplication Diet

An eight-week dietary progression guide for patients recovering from Nissen fundoplication, the procedure commonly performed for severe acid reflux (GERD). The plan walks you through the gradual transition from clear liquids in week one through a normal diet by weeks seven and eight, with specific guidance on textures, trigger foods, and hydration at each stage.

Download the Diet Plan (PDF)

Colorectal Surgery Preparation (ERAS Protocol)

Pre-operative instructions for colorectal surgery patients, following our Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol. This guide covers the mechanical and antibiotic preparation, antibacterial showering, and pre-operative nutritional supplement steps you will complete in the days leading up to surgery.

Download the Preparation Guide (PDF)

Constipation Care Guide

Practical guidance for preventing and managing constipation, including hydration, fiber intake, gentle activity, and over-the-counter medication options. Particularly relevant for patients recovering from abdominal surgery or taking prescription pain medication, which can both contribute to constipation.

Download the Care Guide (PDF)

When to Call Our Office

If you are recovering from surgery and notice any of the following, call us immediately at (301) 215-0127. Do not use the patient portal for urgent matters.

Call Our Office

Fever above 100.4 degrees
Redness around incisions, or drainage that is green, yellow, or foul-smelling
Bleeding from incisions that does not stop with ten minutes of pinpoint pressure
Vomiting or persistent nausea
Inability to urinate more than 6 to 8 hours after surgery
Severe abdominal pain not relieved by your prescribed medications
Large bruising or discoloration
A general sense that you are getting worse rather than better each day

Call (301) 215-0127

Call 911 Immediately For

Chest pain
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or vision changes
Uncontrolled bleeding