Question:
How early can I do preop testing?

I need to do my preop in another city and have it faxed to the surgeon.I will ask the Dr about it but just need a general idea, can I do my preop a week before my date or does it have to be a couple of days before?    — Lisa F. (posted on June 6, 2003)

June 6, 2003
My surgeon does them early, like a onth or more before your date, then repeats some immediately before surgery, within a week. This helps weed out anything abnormal causuing a delay. Like a EKG thats questionable. A couple days before surgery doesnt give time for a cardiologist to review and decide if futher testing is needed.
   — bob-haller

June 6, 2003
go by what your surgeon tells you. Some tests are only good for a certain period of time like 30-60-90 days. If you get them done to far out, you might have to repeat them.
   — Delores S.

June 6, 2003
You definitely have to go by what the surgeon or pre-op nurse tells you. In the state of MD, by law, some tests and exams can be done no earlier than 2 weeks before surgery, other tests are only good for a certain period of time. Best wishes-
   — M B.

June 7, 2003
Different tests can be done at different stages. An EKG and chest x-ray are good for 30 days, but labs should be within a week generally - usually just a few days before surgery. Some repeat the EKG if there is any suspicion, or just to be extra careful. Specialist consults such as cardiologist, GI, etc., can be done way ahead, but probably within 6 months of surgery.
   — bethybb