Pre-Op Physical Exam
Who Needs to Get a Pre-Op Physical Exam?
A pre-operative physical examination is generally performed upon the request of your surgeon to ensure that a patient is healthy enough to safely undergo anesthesia and surgery. This evaluation usually includes a physical examination, cardiac evaluation, lung function assessment, and appropriate laboratory tests.
The preoperative evaluation is often required before a patient undergoes any elective surgery (non-emergency). The purpose of this pre op exam is not necessarily to “clear” a patient for surgery. Rather, it is done to evaluate if there are any risks that the surgeon and the medical team must prepare for.
When Should I Schedule a Pre-Op Physical?
A preoperative evaluation is often required before a patient undergoes any elective surgery (non-emergency). The purpose of this pre op exam is not necessarily to “clear” a patient for surgery. Rather, it is done to evaluate if there are any risks that the surgeon and the medical team must prepare for.
What’s the Difference between a Physical and a Pre-Op Physical?
A pre-operative physical exam is like a regular health checkup and includes additional tests and examinations based on the surgery planned. You can prepare for the exam the same way you would prepare for a complete physical examination.
Is there Bloodwork during Pre-Op Physical Exams?
Yes, these are the most common pre-surgery blood tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Chem 7 blood chemistry panel.
- Liver function panel (liver function tests, LFTs)
- PT/PTT/INR (coagulation study)
Can I be Exempt from doing a Pre-Op Physical Exam?
Subject to the discretion of the surgeon and/or primary care practitioner, a preoperative medical evaluation may not be necessary for all patients having surgery. Otherwise healthy patients do not usually require a preoperative medical evaluation.