Pre-Operative Physical
If you need surgery, it’s essential to participate in a preoperative physical. A preoperative physical presents an opportunity to check in on your health and well-being before undergoing a time-consuming or invasive surgical procedure. At Coastal Medical Group in Webster and Houston, Texas, the team regularly performs preoperative physicals on both men and women. To make your appointment, call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool today.
Pre-Operative Physical Q & A
A preoperative physical is a medical exam you participate in before undergoing surgery. The goal of a preoperative physical is to ensure you’re physically healthy enough to participate in the operation.
Surgical operations take a toll on you, both physically and emotionally. The healthier and stronger you are before surgery, the more likely you are to experience positive outcomes and a speedy recovery.
During a preoperative physical, your Coastal Medical Group provider does a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you a series of questions about your general health and any symptoms you’re experiencing.
A preoperative physical also features a series of screening procedures, including:
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a diagnostic procedure used to determine the health and function of your heart. During an EKG, your doctor places a series of electrodes on your arms and chest. These electrodes measure the electrical output of your heart.
The process is entirely noninvasive but capable of detecting arrhythmias, previous heart attacks, blocked arteries, and other cardiovascular problems.
Laboratory testing
Your doctor also orders a series of laboratory tests. Depending on the type of surgery you need, your doctor may recommend a complete blood count, urinalysis, or a comprehensive metabolic panel. Laboratory testing provides vital information about your health and well-being.
If your doctor detects any potential problems, he may recommend holding off on surgery until you better manage your cholesterol, blood sugar, or other similar issues.
X-rays
X-rays are a type of diagnostic imaging that allows your Coastal Medical Group provider to look at your bones, joints, and internal organs. If you’ve suffered a stress fracture or sports-related injury, your doctor might order a series of X-rays prior to surgery to get a better idea of the damage.
Yes. Even though modern surgical techniques and anesthetics have a proven track record of success, they aren’t perfect. A preoperative physical presents an opportunity for your doctor to ensure you’re healthy enough to undergo surgery.
It can also alert you to potentially serious health problems while lowering your risk of complications such as infection.
If you’re preparing to undergo surgery, invest in a preoperative physical at Coastal Medical Group today by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool.