Heart Health
Ask the doctor: What does my doctor mean by "clearance for surgery"?
Q. I had a small heart attack last year when I was undergoing an operation to remove part of my colon. I am doing fine in that regard, but now I need cataract surgery, and my ophthalmologist has sent me to my internist for "clearance" before surgery. Does this mean my risk for another heart attack is high?
A. If you are not currently having chest pain, marked shortness of breath, fainting, near-fainting spells, or other symptoms of heart disease, your risk of having heart problems with cataract surgery are very, very low. Cataract surgery puts very little—if any—strain on the heart, and complications are rare. That said, ophthalmologists do not provide care for heart problems, and they tend to err on the side of caution by getting more expert assistance in assessing risks for surgery. So don't be unnerved by this referral by your ophthalmologist—it is a fairly routine practice, even for patients with no history of heart disease.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.