The preoperative consultation is a key part of the anesthetic and surgical process. Depending on your age and medical status, your preoperative consultation will either be scheduled one or more days in advance of your surgery, or it may be performed on the day of the surgery while you are in the preoperative area of our Ambulatory Surgery Unit awaiting surgery.

The anesthesia provider will review your medical and surgical history and perform any necessary diagnostic tests such as blood tests or an electrocardiogram. The type of anesthetic that is judged best for you will be discussed, including benefits, risks, and alternative techniques when appropriate.

The anesthesia provider will answer any questions you may have and is there to address any concerns you may have about undergoing anesthesia. He or she will also prescribe appropriate preoperative medication, which the nurses will administer prior to anesthesia.

PLEASE NOTE: You may not be scheduled for an advance appointment in the Anesthesiology Preoperative Consultation Clinic. However, if for any reason you wish to meet with an anesthesiologist in advance of the day of surgery, you are welcome to do so. Please let your surgeon know your desire and he or she will schedule you for an appointment with us. We are always delighted to see any patient who feels they would benefit from advance discussions and evaluation.