Getting Ready for Surgery? Some things you need to know

Dr. Carolyn begins this episode with a personal story about a surgery she had that resulted in a serious complication. She shares what she learned from this difficult experience so you won't make the same mistake she did. SOME PRE-OP IDEAS to help you prepare for surgery: Ask about anesthesia options Confirm who will be doing your surgery Decide on Medical Power of Attorney Create a Living Will https://www.ohiobar.org   SCREENING TESTS Various pre-op screening tests that you might need include: an EKG, Chest X-ray, Cardiac stress test, and Pulmonary Function Tests. There is also a special questionnaire to see if you are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). http://www.stopbang.ca/patient/screening.php   NEW RECOMMENDATIONS from several groups include: The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association now recommend that every patient needs to be assessed to determine their risk for a post-op cardiac event. In other words, it's important to find out if you are at high risk of having a heart attack during or after surgery. There are also new recommendations regarding certain medications to stop prior to surgery, including SGLT2 inhibitors, like Invokana, Jardiance, Farxiga or Steglatro. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology   If you're taking a GLP-1 agonist like Ozempic, Wegovy or Trulicity, the American Gastroenterological  Association, along with several other medical societies, now recommends that you follow a liquid diet 24 hours prior to your surgery.  https://www.asahq.org   As of 2025, the American Society of Anesthesiologists has new recommendations for patients over age 65 to prevent delirium (acute confusion) after inpatient surgery: Screening older patients to identify those at risk for developing delirium Choosing type of anesthesia with your anesthesiologist Minimizing certain medications that might increase your risk for delirium Considering the medication  dexmedetomidine during the immediate post-op period to prevent delirium in high risk patients. https://www.asahq.org/about-asa   SUMMARY The more prepared you are for surgery, the better your chances will be for a good outcome. Discuss the details of the surgery with your surgeon. Ask about anesthesia options. Schedule a pre-op visit with your primary care doctor. Ask about recommended screening tests and assessments. If appropriate, ask about getting tested for a metal allergy. Be sure to have your list of questions answered prior to surgery. It helps to take someone with you to these appointments. Take charge of this important pre-op time period. You'll be glad you did. Note: The information included in today's podcast is not meant to be used as personal medical advice. Always consult your doctor or nurse practitioner before making medical decisions or making any changes in your medication.