The importance of preoperative laboratory exams in elective surgeries: risks and consequences of omitting them

Title: The importance of preoperative laboratory exams in elective surgeries: risks and consequences of omitting them

Before undergoing elective surgical intervention, it is essential to perform various laboratory exams to evaluate the patient's health status and minimize any potential risk. These analyzes not only provide a detailed vision of the individual's general health, but also allow the medical team to make informed decisions and prepare contingencies in case of unexpected complications. Next, we will explore the typically required laboratory exams before elective surgery and the possible consequences of not performing them.

1. Complete hemogram (CBC): This exam is vital to detect anemias, infections, coagulopathies and other hematological diseases. A low red blood cell account could indicate anemia, which could cause poor healing and slow recovery, while a high white blood cell account could point out an infection that must be treated before surgery.

2. Coagulogram: Tests such as prothrombin time (TP) and activated partial thromboplastin time (TTPA) are essential to assess blood coagulation capacity. Coagulation disorders can lead to excessive bleeding during or after surgery, or the formation of dangerous blood clots.

3. Blood chemistry: These analyzes include a variety of tests, such as electrolytes, creatinine and glucose. Electrolytic imbalances can affect cardiac and renal function, while abnormal glucose levels can indicate non -diagnosed diabetes or poor control of it, which increases the risks of slow infection and healing.

4. Hepatic function tests: The liver is fundamental in the metabolization of medications, including anesthetics. A liver that does not work correctly can affect the way the patient responds to anesthesia and his ability to recover after surgery.

5. Urine analysis: A general urine exam can detect urinary tract infections, kidney problems and diabetes, conditions that could complicate surgery and anesthesia.

6. Image tests: Depending on the type of intervention and the patient's medical history, additional studies such as X -rays, CT, MRI or ECG may be necessary to evaluate the health of specific organs and systems.

Omitting these preoperative exams may have serious consequences. A risk is negative interaction with anesthesia, which can vary from an allergic reaction to complications with respiratory and cardiovascular function. Non -diagnosed infections can be aggravated with surgery, potentially spreading to other parts of the body and complicating recovery. Not detected coagulation disorders can lead to uncontrollable bleeding during operation or the formation of dangerous clots in the postoperative period.

In addition, unidentified problems with vital organs such as liver, kidneys or heart can result in inadequate management of medications, serious complications during and after surgery, and in extreme cases, they could be fatal. Not performing these tests can also prolong recovery time, increase hospital stay and, consequently, raise medical costs.

In conclusion, preoperative laboratory exams play a crucial role in identifying possible risks and guarantee that the patient will be in the best possible state of health before elective surgical intervention. Skipping these analyzes can result in unforeseen and serious consequences, affecting patient safety and surgery results. Therefore, it is essential that patients and medical professionals take these exams with the seriousness they require, ensuring a safer surgical process and optimal postoperative results.