Before you have surgery, your surgeon will want to ensure you have taken the necessary steps to prepare for the procedure. Usually, this involves a checkup and tests before the surgery.

Some of the questions may seem repetitive, but that is because the team will want to make sure they have all the necessary information to have the best outcome after the procedure. 

It is essential to take all necessary steps preoperatively to know you are ready and prepared. You may require clearance from a team of doctors before the surgery. You will also need to undergo COVID testing before the procedure. 

In this article we will address necessary preoperative screenings so you know what to expect from your preoperative screenings. 

What is a preoperative checkup? 

A preoperative checkup occurs before your surgery. You will meet either with your surgeon or possibly your primary physician. The appointment is usually made within a month of the scheduled procedure, so physicians have enough time to address any underlying medical issues. 

You may be asked about any health conditions and medications you have taken over the last several years so they can get a thorough medical history. It is important to be honest, including if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use any other recreational drugs. 

After the medical history is complete, the physician will perform a physical head-to-toe exam. They are looking for any abnormalities that may impact the safety of the planned surgery. 

Results of the checkup should be sent to the surgeon if completed by a primary physician. This allows the surgeon to address any concerns or missing health information missing for your specific surgery. Usually, a nurse will contact you if additional information is necessary. 

Consulting other specialists prior to surgery

Your surgeon will want to ensure that any underlying health conditions will not interfere with the outcomes of your surgery. You may need to see any specialists for safety reasons and obtain consent. Some specialists may include: 

  • Endocrinologist- If you have been diagnosed with diabetes
  • Cardiologist- If you have a history of heart problems or high blood pressure
  • Hematologist- If you have a history of blood clots
  • Sleep Doctor- If you have a history of sleep apnea

Once you have completed the exam, sign a release and send the results to your surgeon.  

What tests can I expect before surgery?

Your surgeon will likely recommend tests before you have your surgery. Some tests are standard for all surgical patients, while others are specific to those with health conditions. 

Common tests surgeons order before surgery include: 

  • Blood tests (Complete blood count (CBC), kidney, liver, and blood sugar levels
  • An EKG to check heart rhythms
  • A chest x-ray to check your lungs

Depending on your age, general health, risk factors, and the type of surgery you are having, you may undergo additional specialized testing, including: 

  • An endoscopy or colonoscopy to look at the lining of your gastrointestinal tract
  • A heart stress test 
  • MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound of the planned surgery

If all testing is done a few weeks before the surgery, it will prevent your surgery from being delayed. Be sure to follow all preoperative instructions given by your surgeon and keep all appointments with all of your providers. 

How can we help at our Urgent Care Centers?

If you need a preoperative checkup before your surgery, we are here to help! Please visit us at the following locations: 

Tel. 281-428-0000

Tel. (832) 821-9780

We also offer Primary Care in Baytown. Our physicians can meet a variety of your healthcare needs, including preoperative screenings. Contact us today to schedule at either one of our locations.

 

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.