Preoperative tests
Introduction
Preoperative tests are carried out before planned (elective) surgery. They provide information about conditions that may affect treatment.
The tests you need to have before your operation will depend upon:
your age
your overall level of health
any medications you're taking
the type of surgery you're having
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends a number of preoperative tests including:
a full blood count (FBC)
blood clotting tests
a blood gases test
a blood glucose test
a urine dipstick test
kidney function tests
a sickle cell test
a pregnancy test (for women)
lung function tests
a chest X-ray
an electrocardiogram (ECG)
Preoperative tests