What Pre-Op Blood Tests Are Necessary and Why?
Undergoing surgery is a significant decision, and it’s crucial to ensure that you are as prepared as possible. One of the most important steps in this preparation is undergoing pre-operative blood tests. These tests help your healthcare provider assess your overall health and identify any potential risks before your surgery. In this article, we will delve into the various pre-op blood tests, their purposes, and why they are essential.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most common pre-op blood tests. It provides a comprehensive overview of your blood’s components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The CBC helps identify conditions such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Blood Cells (RBCs) | Carry oxygen to your body’s tissues and remove carbon dioxide. |
| White Blood Cells (WBCs) | Help fight infections and diseases. |
| Platelets | Help with blood clotting to stop bleeding. |
| Hemoglobin | Measures the oxygen-carrying capacity of your red blood cells. |
| Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) | Indicates the average size of your red blood cells. |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) | Indicates the average amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) | Indicates the concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. |
Coagulation Profile
The coagulation profile, also known as a PT/INR or APTT test, measures how well your blood clots. This test is crucial for patients with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
| Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Prothrombin Time (PT) | Measures the time it takes for blood to clot. |
| International Normalized Ratio (INR) | Indicates how long it takes for blood to clot, compared to a normal person’s blood. |
| Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) | Measures the time it takes for blood to clot after being activated. |
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests assess the health of your liver and its ability to process nutrients, medications, and toxins. These tests are essential for patients with liver conditions or those taking medications that may affect the liver. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
