Preparing for surgery involves a series of tests to ensure that you are fit for the procedure and to minimise the risk of complications. Your doctor will talk you through these and answer any questions that you might have, but to help you understand the basics, here’s a summary of tests that you might be advised to undertake before surgery:
Pre-Surgical Tests Overview
Before undergoing surgery, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your health status. Surgeons and anaesthesiologists use pre-surgical tests to identify any potential issues that could complicate the procedure or your recovery. These tests are tailored to your health history, the type of surgery you’re having, and any underlying medical conditions.
Common Pre-Surgical Tests
Blood Tests
- Full Blood Count (FBC): This test checks for anaemia, infection, and other blood-related issues. Anaemia could lead to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues during surgery, while infections could complicate the healing process. Anaemia is a common problem in women who have heavy periods or have had a gastric sleeve or bypass procedure.
- Electrolyte Panel: Measures levels of potassium, sodium, and other electrolytes that regulate heart rhythms and other body functions. Abnormal levels could affect heart and muscle function, posing risks during surgery.
- Coagulation Studies (PT/PTT): Assesses how well your blood clots, which is crucial for preventing excessive bleeding during and after surgery. Abnormal clotting times could necessitate the adjustment of medications or treatments to manage bleeding risks.
- Glucose: Monitors blood sugar levels to manage diabetes or detect it in undiagnosed patients. High blood sugar can increase the risk of infection and slow the healing process.
- Cotinine test:. This checks for nicotine in the blood stream. Patients who have a history of heavy smoking will be asked to have a cotinine blood test before booking their surgery to avoid the high risk of infection, skin necrosis and anaesthetic complications associated with cigarettes, shisha and vaping.
Imaging Tests
- Chest X-rays: Helps diagnose respiratory issues, heart problems, and infections. For patients with a history of lung or heart disease, this test can reveal conditions that might need to be managed before surgery.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart to detect arrhythmias and heart muscle damage. This test is particularly important for patients with a history of heart disease, chest pain, or those undergoing major surgeries.
- Mammogram and Breast Ultrasound: I nternational and local guidelines suggest that breast screening should begin after the age of 40 in women. Any woman who is considering aesthetic surgery who has a higher risk of breast cancer (family history, a cancer syndrome, past history of breast cancer) should have a breast screen as well. The most common method of reconstructing a mastectomy defect is to use a DIEP or TRAM flap, which is the abdominal skin removed in a tummy tuck procedure. Women who have had a tummy tuck cannot have a DIEP or TRAM breast reconstruction. We therefore recommend an up to date breast screen in women considering abdominoplasty surgery as well.
Other Tests
- Urinalysis: Detects kidney and bladder infections, diabetes, and can also reveal the presence of illegal drugs. Kidney function is crucial for processing medications and anaesthesia.
- White Blood Count (WBC): Diagnoses infections and monitors the effect of certain medications on white blood cells. A high WBC count may indicate infection or inflammation, requiring treatment before surgery.
Special Considerations
Depending on your medical history and the type of surgery, you may need additional tests:
- Liver and Kidney Function Tests: These tests ensure these organs are working properly, as they can affect anaesthesia and medication metabolism. Poor liver or kidney function can alter how your body handles drugs used during surgery.
- Pregnancy Test: For women of childbearing age to prevent any risk to an unborn baby. Anaesthesia and surgical procedures can pose risks to a foetus, so it’s crucial to know if a patient is pregnant.
Discussing Your Tests with Your Doctor
It’s important to discuss the necessity of each test with your healthcare provider. Some tests are routine, while others are ordered based on specific symptoms or medical history. If you have concerns about any test, address them before your surgery. Understanding why each test is necessary can help alleviate anxiety and ensure you are fully prepared.
Pre-surgical testing is a critical but routine step in your surgical journey, and it doesn’t need to be the cause of any anxiety. Being asked to undertake these tests also doesn’t mean that you’re at any greater risk in the surgery itself.
Instead, these tests help your medical team – including your female plastic surgeon Eastern Suburbs – to tailor the surgery and anaesthesia to your needs. Remember to follow your doctor’s instructions and complete all recommended tests well before your scheduled surgery. Proper preparation and clear communication with your healthcare team can significantly enhance your safety and recovery process.
