What Do Pre-Op Blood Tests Check For?
Before undergoing surgery, it’s crucial to undergo a series of pre-operative blood tests. These tests are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of your health, ensuring that you are fit for surgery and minimizing the risk of complications. Let’s delve into what these tests check for.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most common pre-op blood tests. It provides a detailed look at your blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Here’s what it checks for:-
Red Blood Cells (RBCs): The CBC measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. A low count may indicate anemia, while a high count could be a sign of polycythemia, a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells.-
White Blood Cells (WBCs): White blood cells are responsible for fighting infections. An elevated count may suggest an infection, while a low count could indicate a weakened immune system.-
Platelets: Platelets are essential for blood clotting. A low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia, can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
2. Blood Type and Rh Factor
Determining your blood type and Rh factor is crucial for ensuring that you receive the correct blood type if you need a transfusion during surgery. Here’s what these tests check for:-
Blood Type: Your blood type is determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens on your red blood cells. The most common blood types are A, B, AB, and O.-
Rh Factor: The Rh factor is another antigen on your red blood cells. If you’re Rh-negative, you may need to receive Rh-negative blood if you become pregnant with an Rh-positive baby.
3. Coagulation Profile
The coagulation profile evaluates your blood’s ability to clot, which is essential for preventing excessive bleeding during surgery. Here’s what it checks for:-
Prothrombin Time (PT): PT measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. A prolonged PT may indicate a bleeding disorder or liver disease.-
Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT): PTT also measures clotting time but focuses on the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade. A prolonged PTT may suggest a bleeding disorder or liver disease.-
International Normalized Ratio (INR): INR is a standardized measure of PT and is used to monitor patients on blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin.
4. Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests assess the health of your liver and its ability to process toxins. Here’s what they check for:-
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): ALT is an enzyme found in liver cells. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage or disease.-
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): AST is another enzyme found in liver cells. Elevated levels may also indicate liver damage or disease.-
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): ALP is an enzyme found in the liver, bone, and intestines. Elevated levels may suggest liver or bone disease.-
Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a waste product produced by the liver. Elevated levels may indicate liver disease or bile duct obstruction.
5. Kidney Function Tests
Kidney function tests evaluate the health of your kidneys and their ability to filter waste products from your blood. Here’s what they check for:-
Urea Nitrogen (BUN): BUN is a waste product produced by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney damage or dehydration.-
Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney damage or decreased kidney function.-
Electrolytes: Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, are essential for maintaining proper bodily functions. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney damage or other health issues.
6. Diabetes Screen
Diabetes can affect your recovery after surgery. A diabetes screen checks for high blood sugar levels, which may indicate diabetes or prediabetes. Here’s what it checks for:- <