The Importance of Cardiac Clearance Before Surgery

If you or a loved one are preparing for surgery, you may have been told you have to complete a cardiac clearance. But what does that mean, and why is it so important? A cardiac clearance evaluates your heart’s health. It’s like a sports physical, which assesses an athlete’s condition and identifies any potential risks before they practice their sport. In a similar way, a cardiac clearance helps the medical team ensure that your heart is strong enough to undergo surgery, anesthesia, and the medications that’ll be used during your procedure.

Here’s what to expect during a cardiac clearance:

1. Electrocardiogram: Records the heart’s electrical activity, and tracks heart rate and rhythm
2. Complete blood count: Checks for any abnormal blood levels
3. Echocardiogram: Track’s the heart’s structure and function through a live image
4. Cardiac stress test: Measures how well the heart works under physical activity
5. Nuclear stress test: Measures the blood flow to the heart

If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or a family history of cardiac issues, this clearance is very important. The additional stress on your heart from the surgery can pose serious risks.

With this evaluation, doctors are better equipped for any challenges that might come up.

If you have any questions on cardiac clearance, contact your doctor. For more information about Jackson Health System’s cardiac care, visit cardiology.jacksonhealth.org.