You must obtain medical clearance from the physician who manages your medical care (usually your primary care provider) within 30 days of your scheduled surgery date. The physician must complete a full History & Physical Clearance Form (see attached).
What is a surgical clearance?
The term is often used by surgeons requesting a medical evaluation before performing surgery on a patient. In the context of surgery, a medical clearance is, essentially, considered to be an authorization from an evaluating doctor that a patient is cleared, or deemed healthy enough, for a proposed surgery.
What is required for pre op clearance?
A history and physical examination, focusing on risk factors for cardiac, pulmonary and infectious complications, and a determination of a patient's functional capacity, are essential to any preoperative evaluation.
How long is medical clearance good for surgery?
History and Physical Exam and Labs are valid for 30 days. EKG's that are normal are valid for 90 days. These tests meet the minimum requirements for surgical clearance; further testing is at your discretion.
What happens at a pre surgical screening?
Common tests that your surgeon may ask you to have if you have not had them recently are: Blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) and kidney, liver, and blood sugar tests. Chest x-ray to check your lungs. ECG (electrocardiogram) to check your heart.
How long does a pre op physical take?
Your appointment will take between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the specific tests that should be performed.
What is involved in a medical clearance for surgery?
A medical clearance often involves a physical examination, chest x-ray, blood and urine testing, and electrocardiogram (EKG). Additional assessments or tests may be necessary depending on a patient's existing comorbidities or those discovered.