Pre-Anesthetic Recommendations
Prior to surgery, complete blood work (CBC, serum chemistry, electrolytes) and urinalysis is recommended for all patients. Blood work should be performed prior to the day of surgery if the patient is otherwise healthy. Performing blood work on the day of surgery is not recommended as abnormalities may result in postponement. Blood work may be performed up to 14 days in advance for elective procedures on young healthy patients. For geriatric and/or ill patients, blood work should be performed no more than 24 to 48 hours ahead of surgery. A coagulation profile may be necessary in some cases and should be run within 24 hours of surgery.
Any required radiographs should be obtained prior to the day of surgery if possible.
When patients are undergoing surgery for a neoplastic condition, abdominal and/or thoracic procedure, radiographs are recommended. Abdominal ultrasound may also be necessary in some cases.
A thorough inspection of the patient’s skin is advised prior to orthopedic procedures. Evidence of infection/lesions may increase the risk of surgical infection and may result in cancellation or postponement of surgery. If your patient has a history of allergies, pyoderma, or active lesions, please consider a two week course of antibiotics. Final dose should be given no more than 24 hours before surgical procedure.