Cardiac Preoperative Clearance

What is cardiac preoperative clearance?

Cardiac preoperative clearance is an essential part of preparing for heart surgery. Your cardiologist at COR Healthcare Medical Associates does a heart health screening in the month before you’re due for your operation to ensure you’re healthy enough to undergo the planned procedure.

People who have heart conditions often have other health problems as well. Other things could be present that put them at an increased risk of problems during heart surgery. Some of the most common issues that need careful assessment include:

• Age
• Weight
• History of smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Previous heart surgeries
• Poor physical condition
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Coronary artery disease

These and other factors can increase the likelihood of complications, so it’s vital for your surgeon to know what your risks are. They can then assess the most suitable and safest way to approach your surgery.

What happens at a cardiac preoperative clearance?

Many aspects of a cardiac preoperative clearance are much the same as a regular consultation. Your cardiologist starts by reviewing your medical history and current health status. They discuss why you’re having the surgery, and make sure you understand what the risks are.

Your cardiologist also needs to look at your latest electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) and other relevant test results. The readings from your ECG/EKG, which measures the electrical activity in your heart, are critical to completing the cardiac preoperative clearance process.

If you don’t have an up-to-date ECG/EKG or the results of your last test aren’t clear enough, you might need to have another. You might also need other tests like an echocardiogram or a stress test.

Your cardiologist can tell you which extra tests you need based on what they find during your cardiac preoperative clearance.

How do I prepare for a cardiac preoperative clearance?

At the time you book your appointment for cardiac preoperative clearance, your provider gives you detailed instructions about any special preparations you need to make.

In some cases, you might have to refrain from eating, and you might need to stop taking some of your regular medications.

If you need a stress test, you’ll be exercising on a treadmill. Remember to wear comfortable clothes and footwear in case you need this test.

Completing a cardiac preoperative clearance is vital to ensure you’re ready for your surgery and that every precaution is taken to keep you safe. If you have any heart health worries, call COR Healthcare Medical Associates today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.