❤️Cardiac Review Before Surgery
Because you mentioned some heart-related symptoms in your assessment, your team may arrange a few extra checks before surgery. This is a routine, precautionary step to make sure your heart is in the best possible condition for your anaesthetic and operation.
Why extra checks may be needed
Symptoms such as chest pain, breathlessness when lying flat, palpitations, or blackouts can sometimes point to a heart condition that benefits from review before surgery.
Identifying and treating any issues in advance helps reduce the risk of complications during and after your operation.
What the review may involve
An ECG (a quick, painless recording of your heart's rhythm).
Blood tests to check for anaemia, kidney function and heart strain markers.
Sometimes an echocardiogram (ultrasound scan of the heart) or a review with a cardiologist.
What you can do
Bring a full list of your heart medicines, including doses, to your pre-assessment appointment.
Tell the team about any new or worsening symptoms as soon as possible — don't wait for the day of surgery.
Practical tips
- Keep taking your regular heart medicines unless specifically told to stop.
- Report any new chest pain, breathlessness or blackouts to your GP or pre-assessment team promptly.
- Bring a written list of medicines and any recent hospital letters.