Operatsioonieelne

Operatsioonieelne (from Estonian operatsioon- “operation” and -ealne “pre-”) refers to the period and set of activities that occur before a surgical operation. During this phase, patients undergo a systematic assessment to evaluate their health status, identify potential risks, and ensure that the operative procedure can be carried out safely.

Key components of an operatsioonieelne evaluation include a thorough medical history, physical examination, laboratory investigations, and imaging studies as required. The assessment often covers cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and coagulation parameters, as well as a review of previous surgeries and anesthetic complications. Patients may also receive preoperative counseling on anesthesia, postoperative pain management, and rehabilitation expectations.

In many healthcare settings, standardized preoperative screening checklists are employed to minimize omissions. These checklists typically address medication management, such as discontinuation of anticoagulants, and the optimization of chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Nutritional status is also assessed, with recommendations for fasting or carbohydrate loading protocols based on the latest perioperative guidelines.

The goal of the operatsioonieelne process is to reduce intraoperative and postoperative complications, shorten hospital stays, and improve overall surgical outcomes. It is a collaborative effort involving surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and often multidisciplinary teams including nutritionists and physiotherapists. Regular updates to preoperative protocols are informed by emerging evidence and quality‑improvement initiatives, ensuring that operative patient care continues to evolve toward best practice.