Heart tests before surgery: When are they necessary?
If you've ever had surgery, you may recall having a preoperative evaluation, sometimes referred to as "clearance" for surgery. These check-ups often occur days or weeks prior to a planned, non-cardiac surgery and typically involve a physical exam. You also may get blood tests, x-rays, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) — a quick, painless test that records your heart's electrical activity.
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