When an animal, or human, undergoes
an anesthetic procedure, it is important to know if any organ or immune system
problems exist ahead of time. If the kidneys or liver do not function optimally,
it alters the way the body metabolizes the anesthesia and can put a patient
at risk. Knowing ahead of time allows the doctor to take special precautions.
Perhaps a different drug protocol or special dosing is warranted. This is
why we recommend pre-op testing for every surgical patient. The older the
patient, the more extensive the testing.
The ERD (Early Renal Disease) Test is recommended for all ages and body conditions.
It tests for microproteins in the urine, is simple, quick, and inexpensive
but can alert us if there is systemic disease we need to be aware of. A positive
test results from the kidneys leaking protein which occurs if the kidneys
themselves are sick or if another area of the body has a problem by causing
stress on the kidneys. If we see a positive result, we will recommend a full
urinanalysis and possibly bloodwork. Inflammation in any part of the body
may cause stress on the kidneys. Frequently, for example, dental disease will
cause a positive result. When positive, it is that much more important to
pamper the kidneys throughout the anesthetic procedure and through the day
by flushing them with fluids.
A blood chemistry and CBC are the main components to a blood panel. The smallest
panels are sufficient for the younger patient, age 0-6 years. They highlight
kidney and liver functions, glucose level, body proteins, and immune system
status. It is a cursory look at the most important information we need before
anesthesia.
The larger panels, for senior patients generally, or younger patients with
a history of problems, give us far more information about all the major body
functions. We receive greater detail about the kidney and liver function,
glucose (to screen for diabetes), thyroid information, as well as pancreatic
function and mineral levels. We often run this test with a urine for a complete
overall health assessment.
Chest x-rays are recommended for any heart patient, cancer patient, or respiratory
patient. We can assess heart size and shape, rule out the spread of cancer
to the lungs or any respiratory condition that may compromise patient survival.
EKG is also available to determine if there is any abnormal electrical activity
in the heart that would compromise the patient.
Though anesthetic protocols are safer than ever before, knowing as much about
our patient optimizes anesthetic success and a better recovery for our patient.