Pre Operative Appointment Specialist

What is a preoperative clearance exam?

The purpose of a preoperative appointment is not to “clear” you for surgery but rather to serve as a time for your physician to make sure you are fit, mentally, emotionally, and physically, to undergo the procedure. Many clinical studies show that a proper preoperative clearance exam lowers the risks associated with general anesthesia and surgery, and promotes a smoother recovery.

The most common complications that a preoperative exam identifies include risk of:

• Pneumonia
• Urinary-tract infection
• Pulmonary edema
• Cardiac arrest
• Wound
• Systemic sepsis
• Unplanned intubation

In addition to measuring your health and fitness levels, a preoperative exam is the perfect time to ask your doctor any questions or concerns you have about your upcoming surgery.

What happens during a preoperative clearance exam?

Depending on the type of surgery you are having, your preoperative clearance exam is typically very similar to an annual physical. The team checks and records your vital signs — blood pressure, pulse, temperature, etc. — before they examine your ears, nose, and throat. A physician also listens to your heart and lungs and presses on your abdomen.

The main difference between an annual physical and your preoperative exam is that the latter focuses primarily on your health and fitness in relation to the upcoming surgery. This exam helps the team identify any potential risk factors or complications before the procedure, so they can remedy any issues that transpire before the surgery.

When should I schedule my preoperative clearance exam?

A preoperative exam is typically scheduled between two and four weeks prior to your surgery. This crucial time frame provides the team with the most accurate and current information regarding your health, while also leaving enough time for them to deal with any potential complications before the procedure. During this time, the team may order additional testing or blood work to ensure you are in the best shape possible for surgery.

You never want to go into surgery feeling unprepared or uninformed. To schedule a thorough preoperative clearance exam with one of the medical professionals at Americare Medical Center, call or book an appointment online today.