Preoperative Risk Assessment

Preoperative Risk Assessment services offered in Santa Monica, CA

Surgery puts extra stress on your heart, and understanding your cardiovascular risk before an operation helps ensure a safer outcome. At Commons Clinic in Santa Monica, California, you can receive a thorough preoperative risk assessment with Jenica L. Ortega, MD, to evaluate your heart health before surgery. Dr. Ortega works closely with your surgical team to identify potential complications and optimize your cardiovascular condition before your procedure. She takes time to address your concerns and create a plan that supports the safest possible surgical experience. To schedule your preoperative risk assessment, call the office or book online today.

Preoperative Risk Assessment Q & A

What is preoperative risk assessment?

Preoperative risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of your cardiovascular health completed before undergoing surgery. This assessment identifies whether you face a high risk for heart-related complications during or after your operation.

Surgery places demands on your heart, including changes in your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. If you have existing heart conditions or risk factors, these stresses can lead to serious complications like a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.

Dr. Ortega evaluates your overall cardiovascular status and works with your surgeon to determine the safest approach for your procedure. She reviews your medical history, current medications, and symptoms you experience. Based on the findings, she may recommend additional testing or treatments to reduce your surgical risk.

Who needs preoperative risk assessment?

Your surgeon may refer you to Dr. Ortega for preoperative risk assessment if you:

Have a history of heart disease, heart attack, or heart failure
Have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity
Experience symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat
Are scheduled for major surgery, especially vascular or orthopedic procedures
Are over age 65 and having intermediate or high-risk surgery
Have had a stent placed or other cardiac procedures within the past year

Even if you feel fine, underlying heart conditions can increase your risk of surgery. Dr. Ortega’s assessment helps catch problems before they become complications.

What does preoperative risk assessment involve?

Dr. Ortega initially begins with a review of your health history and a physical exam. She may order tests like:

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to check your heart’s electrical activity
Echocardiogram to assess your heart's structure and function
Cardiac stress test to see how your heart performs under exertion
Blood work to evaluate kidney function, blood counts, and other factors
Chest X-ray to examine your heart and lungs

Based on your results, Dr. Ortega may recommend starting or adjusting medications, like beta-blockers or statins, to protect your heart during surgery. She collaborates with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to develop a plan that minimizes cardiac risk while performing surgery.

If Dr. Ortega finds concerning issues, she may suggest delaying surgery until your heart condition improves or recommend alternative treatment approaches.

Call Dr. Ortega or book online today to schedule your preoperative assessment.