We’ve been talking a lot about the kinds of exams our board-certified internist, Dr. John Abroon routinely performs as he prepares patients in the New York City area for upcoming surgical procedures. Today we’re pleased to share what you can expect from Pre-Operative Clearances and Exams.
How Surgery Affects You
Before you undergo surgery, you will be required to get a medical clearance exam done. This is to help you safely get the surgery you need by making sure your body is up to the demands and stresses of a surgical procedure. Surgery is highly stressful on the body, both when you are on the operating table as well as in the recovery phase, and some surgeries are harder on the body than others. For example, hip replacements and gallbladder removal can stress your heart, especially when you have anesthesia, not to mention that during an operation, the heart rate and blood pressure go up and down which can bring up undiagnosed heart disease.
To avoid complications from surgery, Dr. Abroon will perform a pre-operative clearance exam to identify underlying health conditions that could potentially impact both your surgical risk and success. If you are at high risk, our doctor can offer ways you can prepare yourself to minimize the risk. Our objective is to evaluate your medical problems so they can be managed during your surgery and provide post-operative care instructions after you receive your clearance.
What You Can Expect
A few weeks before your surgical procedure, Dr. Abroon will look at your complete medical history and complete a physical exam. To get a clear picture of your current condition, X-rays may be taken, blood and urine tests and electrocardiogram (EKG) to check your heart.
Some of the risk factors that will be evaluated include your risk for developing cardiac, pulmonary, or infectious problems. Your doctor and surgeon will need time to address any medical issues before your surgery which might mean referring you to a specialist. Not only will Dr. Abroon review your medical and surgical history, as well as how you handle anesthesia, he will look at your current medications, smoking, alcohol and drug use. He will also check if you are up-to-date on your immunization and vaccinations.
Your clearance needs to be done within 30 days of your scheduled surgery. Whether your upcoming surgery is major or minor and you are needing a pre-operative clearance exam performed, John Abroon, MD, welcomes you to contact our medical office in New York, New York today to schedule your appointment.