ACTA FAC MED NAISS 2011;28(2):125-133

Professional article

UDC:618.1-089

Preoperative Preparation of Patients for Gynecologic Surgery

Goran Lilić¹, Radomir Živadinović^1,2, Aleksandra Petrić^1,2, Vekoslav Lilić^1,2

¹Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center Niš, Serbia

²University of Niš, Faculty of Medicine, Serbia


SUMMARY

Surgical treatment of the patients with gynecologic diseases is warranted only when all the conservative treatment approaches have been exhausted. Surgical treatment is a stress for the patient, and associated risks and complications may be life-threatening. Surgery may be performed after the patient has been informed and her written consent obtained regarding the risks associated with surgery. In order to avoid the risks and complications of surgery, preoperative patient preparation constitutes an important step and is done according to a precise sequence of procedures and measures. The aim of the paper is to present a systematized sequence of procedures and measures to be taken before a planned gynecologic surgical treatment, and to demonstrate the significance of preoperative preparation of patients for the surgery itself and postoperative recovery. After the first visit and talk of a gynecologist with his patient, gynecologic and general clinical examinations, blood and urine laboratory, and various consultative specialist exams (for internal diseases, anesthesiology, etc), the decision is made if and how the surgery should be done. General and special surgical risks are estimated and the decision on the type of surgery is made. Two hours before surgery, a dose of prophylactic antibiotic therapy is aministered, and thromboembolic disease is prevented with low doses of subcutaneous heparin. The operation field is treated with disinfectants immediately before surgery, with mandatory placement of the Folley catether in the bladder.

Key words: gynecologic surgery, preoperative preparation, risk factors