Pre-Operative Blood Work and Lab Results: Understanding Your Numbers

Standard pre-op labs include CBC (hemoglobin, WBC, platelets), metabolic panel (glucose, electrolytes, kidney/liver function), coagulation studies (PT/INR, PTT), and pregnancy test. Low hemoglobin (<11 g/dL) requires iron supplementation or postponement; high glucose (>200 mg/dL) may postpone surgery; abnormal coagulation requires investigation; abnormal kidney/liver function requires medication adjustments. Colombian labs use same units and reference ranges as US labs. Results should be provided in English or translated. Cost: $50–$150 in Colombia vs $200–$400 in US. Recent labs from home (within 2 weeks) can be used if from certified lab; Colombian clinic will review and determine if new labs needed. Understand your results; ask surgeon/anesthesiologist about any abnormal values before proceeding to surgery.