Cardiac Function Assessment Before Surgical Interventions
Assessing cardiac function before surgical interventions is a crucial procedure to ensure patient safety and minimize potential risks before undergoing surgery. This assessment typically involves a series of tests and examinations that help determine the heart’s condition and its readiness for surgery. In the following article, we’ll highlight some of the key procedures involved.
Here are examples of some tests and examinations necessary to evaluate cardiac function prior to surgical interventions:
What is Cardiac Catheterization and When is it Needed?
Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat heart diseases. It involves inserting a thin tube through the blood vessels to reach the heart. A doctor may recommend cardiac catheterization to diagnose or treat heart disorders. Below are the reasons for requesting diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization.
Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray helps diagnose the causes of shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, and some types of fever. It is used to visualize the tissues and bones within the chest, allowing doctors to evaluate the condition of the heart and lungs and detect any abnormal changes that may require further investigation or treatment.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
The ECG test measures the electrical activity of the heart by placing electrodes on specific areas of the body, such as the chest, arms, and legs. The results of this test help in detecting heart health issues such as irregular heartbeats and valve diseases.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram, or “echo,” is a heart imaging test using ultrasound waves. This test allows the visualization of heart valves and chambers and assesses how efficiently the heart is working. During this procedure, warm gel is applied to the patient’s chest, and an ultrasound device is pressed firmly against the skin and moved back and forth to capture the required images.
Cardiac Catheterization
Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic and therapeutic medical procedure in which a thin, long tube called a catheter is inserted into blood vessels, usually through an artery in the groin or arm, and directed toward the heart. This procedure is used to evaluate heart and blood vessel function, diagnose heart diseases such as coronary artery blockages, measure pressure inside heart chambers, and examine heart valves.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
A CT scan is used to examine the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body. This scan helps identify whether there is an aneurysm or other issues that may need to be addressed before or during surgery.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI provides detailed images of the heart. This test reveals how the heart is functioning and the size and shape of the left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping chamber). Additionally, it enables the detection of abnormal tissues in the heart muscle.
Carotid Ultrasound
Carotid ultrasound helps detect blockages or narrowing in the carotid arteries, which could increase the risk of stroke if present.
Blood Tests
The doctor may recommend certain blood tests before surgery. Examples of these tests include:
- Blood sugar level test.
- Potassium blood test, which measures potassium, sodium, and other electrolytes in the blood. These chemicals help regulate heartbeat and other bodily functions.
- Complete blood count (CBC), which helps check red blood cell count for anemia detection and identify infections by analyzing different blood components.
In conclusion, assessing cardiac function before surgical interventions assists doctors in making informed decisions about surgery and reduces the risk of complications during and after the procedure.