The purpose of a pre-operative physical examination given by a surgeon before surgery is to assess the patient's overall health status and identify any potential risks or conditions that could affect the surgical outcome. It allows the surgeon to determine the patient's fitness for the procedure and helps in planning the surgery and anesthesia appropriately. The examination also helps in establishing a baseline for post-operative comparison and monitoring.
During a pre-operative physical examination, the following aspects are typically evaluated:
Medical History: The surgeon will review the patient's medical history, including past surgeries, current medical conditions, medications, allergies, and any previous experiences with anesthesia.
Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the patient's general health, vital signs, heart and lung function, and any specific issues related to the surgical procedure.
Laboratory Tests: Depending on the patient's age, medical condition, and the complexity of the surgery, various laboratory tests (e.g., blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies) may be ordered to evaluate organ function and detect any underlying health problems.
Assessment of Specific Risk Factors: The surgeon will assess any specific risk factors that could impact the surgery, such as obesity, smoking, or chronic medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Medication Management: The surgeon will review the patient's medications and may adjust or temporarily discontinue certain drugs to avoid potential interactions or complications during the surgery.
Anesthesia Evaluation: The anesthesia team may conduct a separate assessment to determine the most suitable anesthesia approach based on the patient's health and the surgical procedure.
Precautions to take before a pre-operative physical examination and surgery:
Provide Accurate Information: It is essential to provide complete and accurate information about your medical history, medications, allergies, and any past experiences with anesthesia.
Follow Pre-Operative Instructions: Adhere to any specific instructions provided by the surgical team, such as fasting guidelines, medication restrictions, and pre-operative preparations.
Inform about Recent Illness or Infection: If you have been ill or developed an infection before the surgery, inform the surgical team promptly.
Stop Smoking and Avoid Alcohol: If you smoke, try to quit before surgery, and avoid alcohol in the days leading up to the procedure, as these can affect healing and anesthesia.
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask any questions or seek clarification about the procedure, risks, and the recovery process.
Arrange Post-Operative Care: Make arrangements for post-operative care and transportation after the surgery, especially if anesthesia will impair your ability to drive.
By conducting a comprehensive pre-operative physical examination, the surgical team aims to minimize potential risks, optimize patient outcomes, and ensure that the patient is in the best possible condition for the upcoming surgery.