Will My Surgery Be Cancelled Because I Overlooked Blood Tests?
I made a mistake. Tomorrow, I am scheduled for LINX surgery to address my GERD and hiatus hernia, all to be performed laparoscopically. I completed my pre-operative appointment a month ago, during which they drew my blood and provided me with a stack of documents. Regrettably, I only reviewed these papers this evening, which was my oversight. While examining the documents today, I came across an order for a blood test and a poorly written note instructing me to obtain this test three to five days prior to the surgery. This critical information was not mentioned to me during the pre-op consultation. Now I'm in a panic. I haven't received any communication from the hospital in the last week. Could my surgery be at risk of cancellation? For context, I am a 25-year-old, generally healthy individual. My details are as follows: - Height: 172 cm - Weight: 65 kg - Contraceptive user and taking omeprazole 40 mg - I do not smoke or consume alcohol. - My past medical history includes GERD, hiatus hernia, and gastritis since 2019.
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 6:30:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about your upcoming surgery, especially after realizing you might have missed an important pre-operative requirement. Let's clarify the situation regarding your blood tests and the likelihood of your surgery being canceled.
Main Points:
- Your surgery may be at risk, but it's not guaranteed to be canceled.
- Communication with your surgical team is key to resolving this issue.
Explanation: Pre-operative blood tests are typically performed to ensure it’s safe for you to undergo surgery. These tests can check for various factors, including blood clotting ability and overall health status. Missing the test could lead your healthcare team to reconsider the timing of your surgery; however, many surgical teams are understanding of such situations, especially if your overall health is strong and you have no significant risk factors.
Next Steps:
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Contact the Surgical Team: Reach out to the hospital or surgical team immediately. Explain the oversight and ask if you can still undergo the surgery or if an alternative arrangement can be made, such as completing the blood test today.
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Stay Calm: While worrying is natural, remember that your surgical team likely has protocols for handling issues like this. They may offer solutions that can still keep your surgery on schedule.
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Document Any Instructions: If you receive updated instructions regarding your blood test or surgery, make sure to write them down or confirm through email, so you have a clear record.
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Prepare for Possible Changes: Ask about alternatives, such as postponing the surgery to allow time for tests or whether they can do the test at the hospital on the same day.
By taking these steps, you'll gain clarity and hopefully resolve the situation positively. Remember, hospitals deal with various scenarios daily, and being proactive is key. Let me know if you need any further assistance or support!
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