Surgical Clearance

Before your hospital admission or certain outpatient procedures, many surgeons will recommend standard laboratory testing to help identify any potential issues that could complicate surgery if not addressed promptly. Common tests performed prior to surgery include:

• Chest X-ray: Used to diagnose conditions such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and lung problems.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Monitors heart electrical activity to detect abnormal rhythms, heart muscle damage, and other heart-related issues.
• Urinalysis: Helps diagnose kidney and bladder infections, as well as certain metabolic disorders.
• White blood cell count: Assists in diagnosing infections and monitoring medication effects on the immune system.

Additionally, you may require one or more blood tests before surgery, including:

• Glucose: Measures blood sugar levels.
• Potassium: Assesses electrolyte levels crucial for heart function.
• Complete blood count (CBC): Checks for anemia and infection.
• Coagulation tests (PT/PTT): Evaluates blood clotting ability.

These tests are essential for ensuring your safety and well-being during surgery, allowing healthcare providers to address any underlying health concerns and optimize your surgical outcomes.