Preoperation

Preoperation, or the preoperative period, refers to the phase before a planned surgical procedure during which a patient is evaluated, prepared, and informed to reduce risk and improve outcomes.

Core activities include medical history and physical examination, assessment of chronic conditions, review of medications and allergies, documentation of prior anesthesia experiences, and risk stratification. Required investigations are ordered as indicated by the procedure and patient factors, such as laboratory tests, imaging, ECG in appropriate patients, and blood product planning when needed. The timing of tests is guided by guidelines and clinical judgment.

Optimization focuses on improving health status before surgery. This may involve controlling cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic conditions, addressing modifiable risk factors (for example, smoking cessation, nutrition, anemia treatment), and ensuring up-to-date immunizations if indicated. Perioperative medication management is tailored to the individual and may involve adjusting or holding certain drugs (such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or insulin) according to the planned procedure and anesthesia plan.

Consent and education are central elements. Patients receive information about the procedure, anesthesia plan, risks and alternatives, expected recovery, and postoperative care. Clear fasting instructions and day-of-surgery logistics are provided.

Logistics include preoperative clinics or assessment teams, verification of patient identity and procedure, coordination among surgical, anesthesia, and nursing staff, and planning for postoperative recovery and discharge. The term 'preoperation' is less commonly used in modern medical literature; 'preoperative' or 'preoperative assessment' are standard synonyms.