Undergoing surgery, whether cosmetic, orthopedic, or general, generates many expectations. However, before entering the operating room, your surgeon and anesthesiologist need a vital guarantee: that your heart is prepared to withstand the stress of the procedure and the anesthesia.
This process is known as Preoperative Evaluation or Surgical Risk Assessment. As a Clinical and Interventional Cardiologist, my goal is to evaluate the actual state of your cardiovascular system quickly, accurately, and professionally, in order to provide the medical assessment that will allow you to proceed with your surgery safely and without complications.
Why is your surgeon asking you for a cardiac evaluation?
During surgery, the body experiences changes in blood pressure, variations in oxygen levels, and the effects of anesthetic drugs. If the heart has hidden electrical blocks, arrhythmias, or weakness in its walls, these stressors can trigger serious complications.
Our assessment is not a simple administrative procedure; it's a medical safety filter. It is commonly required before:
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Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery (Liposculpture, Abdominoplasty, Implants).
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Orthopedic Surgery (Knee or Hip Replacement, Spinal Surgery).
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General and Bariatric Surgery (Gallbladder, Hernias, Gastric Bypass).
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Ophthalmological Surgery (Cataracts, Retina).
What happens if we detect an anomaly?
If during your preoperative evaluation we detect that your blood pressure is dangerously uncontrolled or discover an arrhythmia, we won't leave you to fend for yourself.
As interventional cardiology specialists, we immediately begin the necessary medical treatment to stabilize your condition. Our goal is to optimize your cardiovascular health so that you can reschedule and undergo your surgery under the safest possible conditions, prioritizing your safety above all else.
Our Pre-operative Assessment Consultation includes everything necessary to determine your surgical risk:
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Specific Clinical Review: Analysis of your medical history, allergies, current medications, and the type of surgery you will undergo.
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Resting Electrocardiogram (ECG): Essential to rule out previous silent heart attacks or heart rhythm abnormalities.
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Basic Echocardiogram (If indicated): If we detect a heart murmur or you have risk factors (such as severe hypertension or diabetes), we evaluate the structure of your heart using ultrasound.
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Medical Report: A detailed report for your surgeon indicating your cardiovascular risk level (Goldman/ASA Scale) and recommendations for anesthesia management.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surgical Risk (FAQ)
How far in advance of my surgery should I have the evaluation?
Ideally, the pre-operative evaluation should be performed between 7 and 14 days before your scheduled surgery date. This gives us a safe window of time in case we detect any issues (such as high blood pressure) that require medication adjustments before you go into surgery.
Do I need to bring blood test results to the cardiology appointment?
Yes. To provide a complete surgical risk assessment, it's ideal that you bring the basic pre-operative lab tests your surgeon ordered to your appointment (these usually include a complete blood count, blood chemistry panel, coagulation tests, and a urinalysis). We'll handle the cardiovascular tests (the electrocardiogram).
I am a young and healthy person, do I really need to see a cardiologist before having surgery?
In most modern surgical protocols, especially for surgeries requiring general anesthesia (such as plastic surgery), cardiac evaluation is mandatory regardless of age. There are congenital electrical heart conditions that are asymptomatic and can only be detected by an electrocardiogram.
Your Heart in Expert and Certified Hands
I am Dr. Alvaro Torre, a Clinical and Interventional Cardiologist. My medical practice is guided by excellence and continuous professional development.
Postgraduate studies at the Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, the leading cardiovascular institution in the country.
Certified and Verified Physician: Professional License: 8349496 | Specialty License: 11577241.
