{"id":25250,"date":"2026-07-11T14:16:22","date_gmt":"2026-07-11T14:16:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/?p=25250"},"modified":"2026-07-22T14:17:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T14:17:00","slug":"examens-avant-une-intervention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/examens-avant-une-intervention\/","title":{"rendered":"Essential examinations before orthopedic surgery"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why perform tests before a procedure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before orthopedic surgery, several assessments are generally necessary to prepare for treatment under the best possible conditions.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sosgenougeneve.ch\/imagerie-genou\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">exams<\/a> Pre-intervention tests allow us to confirm the diagnosis, to specify the surgical strategy and to verify that the patient&#039;s state of health is compatible with the operation and the anesthesia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The required assessment depends on many factors: the type of procedure being considered, the patient&#039;s age, medical history, current medications, and the possible presence of chronic illnesses. The necessary examinations before a&nbsp;<strong>hip prosthesis<\/strong>, a&nbsp;<strong>knee prosthesis<\/strong>, Therefore, ligamentoplasty and arthroscopy are not always identical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This preparation is not a mere formality. It allows us to anticipate certain difficulties, reduce risks, and organize the various stages of surgery, hospitalization, and recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The pre-operative consultation: an essential step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The consultation with the surgeon is one of the first steps before the procedure. It allows for a review of the symptoms, an analysis of the tests already carried out, and confirmation that surgery is a suitable solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During this consultation, the surgeon usually explains:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the objective of the operation; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the surgical technique under consideration; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the expected benefits; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the risks and possible complications; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the main stages of recovery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The patient can also ask questions regarding the length of hospitalization, resuming walking, stopping work, rehabilitation or returning to sport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pre-operative examinations are then tailored to the individual situation. Some patients already have recent and comprehensive imaging, while others require further examinations to clarify the diagnosis or prepare for surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What imaging tests are necessary before a procedure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imaging plays a crucial role in preparing for orthopedic surgery. It allows for the analysis of bones, cartilage, ligaments, menisci, tendons, and other joint structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The choice of examination depends on the pathology and the type of intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">X-ray<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u00a0<strong>radiogra<\/strong>p<strong>hie<\/strong>\u00a0It is often the gold standard for studying bone structures and the condition of a joint. It can reveal a fracture, a deformity, a reduction in joint space, or signs of osteoarthritis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before knee or hip replacement surgery, specific X-rays may be taken to assess the limb&#039;s axis and prepare for the procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some images are taken under load, that is, when the patient is standing. They allow observation of the joint&#039;s behavior when it supports the body&#039;s weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MRI<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MRI allows for the precise study of soft tissues. In the knee, it is particularly useful for analyzing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ligaments; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the menisci; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cartilage; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the tendons; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>certain bone lesions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may be requested before ligament, meniscal, or cartilage surgery. However, an MRI is not always necessary before every operation. Its usefulness depends on the diagnosis and the information already available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The scanner<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scanner provides a detailed analysis of bone structures. It can be used to study a complex fracture, a deformity, or certain anatomical features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As part of a\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/planification-3d-en-chirurgie\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"22979\">3D surgical planning<\/a><\/strong>, A scan can also be used to create a precise digital model of the joint. This modeling makes it possible to anticipate certain steps of the procedure and adapt the surgical strategy to the patient&#039;s anatomy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do the pre-operative examinations include a blood test?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A&nbsp;<strong>Preoperative blood test<\/strong>&nbsp;It may be requested before surgery. Its content varies depending on the type of procedure, the patient&#039;s age, their medical history, and the recommendations of the medical team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A blood test can be used to check, among other things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the hemoglobin level in order to check for possible anemia; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the number of platelets; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>certain parameters of coagulation; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>kidney function; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the balance of certain electrolytes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This information can be important for preparing for anesthesia and anticipating certain risks. Before a more significant procedure, such as prosthesis implantation, the assessment may be more comprehensive than for outpatient surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, not all patients undergo exactly the same tests. Pre-operative examinations are always tailored to the patient&#039;s medical profile and the planned surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is an anesthesia consultation necessary?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&nbsp;<strong>anesthesia consultation<\/strong>&nbsp;This is an important step before many procedures. It allows for the assessment of the patient&#039;s general health and the selection of the most appropriate anesthesia technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The anesthesiologist takes into account, in particular:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>medical and surgical history; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>known allergies; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ongoing treatments; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>any possible reactions to previous anesthesia; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic diseases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This consultation also allows for instructions regarding fasting, taking usual medications, and treatments that may need to be adjusted or stopped before the operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is important never to stop a treatment without medical advice. Some medications, especially&nbsp;<strong>anticoagulants<\/strong>, require specific organization in order to limit the risks of bleeding while maintaining adequate protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is an electrocardiogram always necessary?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">L&#039;<strong>electrocardiogram<\/strong>, An ECG, or electrical cardiography, allows for the evaluation of the heart&#039;s electrical activity. It is not routinely performed before all operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may be requested depending on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the patient&#039;s age; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cardiovascular history; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>possible symptoms; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the type of intervention; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>of the type of anesthesia being considered.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In some situations, further examinations may be necessary, such as a cardiology consultation or more specific investigations. These assessments are decided on a case-by-case basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is not to unnecessarily multiply examinations, but to identify any factors that may influence the safety of the intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a dental check-up necessary before getting a prosthesis?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before installing a\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/prothese-totale-de-hanche\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"20358\">hip prosthesis<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0or a\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/prothese-totale-de-genou\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"20356\">knee prosthesis<\/a><\/strong>, A dental check-up may be recommended depending on the situation and the protocols of the establishment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An untreated dental infection can be a potential source of bacteria. Therefore, the goal of the screening is to identify and treat any infection before surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other sources of infection may also require special attention. A skin, urinary, or respiratory infection should be reported to the medical team, as it may sometimes lead to adjustments or postponement of the procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Infection prevention is an integral part of pre-procedure examinations, particularly when an implant or prosthesis is to be fitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is it necessary to review treatments before the operation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A complete list of medications must be provided to the surgeon and the anesthesiologist. This includes prescribed treatments, as well as medications taken occasionally, certain dietary supplements, and over-the-counter products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Certain treatments can influence:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>blood clotting; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the risk of bleeding; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>blood pressure; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>blood sugar; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>kidney function; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>interactions with medications used during anesthesia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The instructions are personalized. Some medications can be continued as normal, while others may require temporary adjustments. It is therefore essential to follow the recommendations given and not to change your treatment on your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do all patients undergo the same tests before a procedure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. There is no single list that applies to all operations and all patients. Pre-operative tests are chosen according to the medical and surgical context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A young person, without any particular medical history, who is to undergo a simple arthroscopy may have a different assessment than a patient who is to receive a joint replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several factors are taken into account:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>age; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>general state of health; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>medical history; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ongoing treatments; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the type and duration of the intervention; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the planned method of anesthesia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This personalized approach helps avoid unnecessary examinations while still carrying out the assessments necessary for patient safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to best prepare for your pre-operative assessment?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good organization allows you to approach the procedure with greater peace of mind. It is helpful to gather important medical documents and prepare a detailed list of daily medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the various consultations, it may be helpful to bring:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>recent X-rays, MRIs or CT scans; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>medical reports; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the list of medications and their dosages; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>information regarding allergies; ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the results of the requested examinations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is also important to report any recent changes in health status: fever, infection, chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, or new illness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pre-intervention examinations thus allow for the development of an appropriate care plan and the anticipation of each patient&#039;s specific needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pre-operative examinations play a crucial role in preparing for orthopedic surgery. They allow for confirmation of the diagnosis, precise planning of the operation, assessment of the patient&#039;s overall health, and anticipation of potential risks associated with surgery or anesthesia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, blood tests, anesthesia consultations, or electrocardiograms: not all of these examinations are systematically necessary. Their prescription depends on the type of procedure, age, medical history, and the specific needs of each patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thorough preparation helps improve the safety of the procedure and facilitates a more efficient recovery. It is therefore important to follow instructions, provide all relevant medical information, and complete the required examinations within the specified timeframe.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pre-operative examinations help prepare for the operation, assess the patient&#039;s health, and anticipate potential risks. Discover the different stages of the pre-operative assessment and the examinations that may be required before orthopedic surgery.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25255,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[104],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25250","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-comprendre-informer"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25250","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25250"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25250\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25251,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25250\/revisions\/25251"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25255"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25250"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25250"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/coulinmedical.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25250"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}