pre-op tests for Mexico surgery?

crikkit · August 21, 2007

I am planning to have my lap band surgery in Mexico in October. My fee includes pre-op tests that are done the same day as surgery. I mentioned to the patient coordinator that I was a bit concerned about paying the fee and travelling to Mexico and finding out from the pre-op tests that they can't do the surgery for some reason. She said that's very rare and that since I have no heart problems and no medical issues (that I know of) that it should be fine.

Should I consider having tests done here before I leave just in case? What sorts of tests should I ask for?

mbanja · August 21, 2007

Hi crikkit, I just had my surgery in TJ, Mexico on the 9th by Dr Huacuz. I was worried just like you, thinking what if I get there and they can't do it. Well everything was fine and your coordinator is right as long as you have no severe medical conditions it should be fine. But, to make you feel better, all they do is an EKG to make sure your heart can handle the surgery and a simple blood test (i have no idea what they test for probably blood sugar levels, cholesterol,etc.) They also ask if you are allergic to any medications. When I arrived around 1 p.m. I filled out my paperwork, met with the doctor, was instructed to take a shower and get into the gown, got my blood drawn and I.V. put in with a bag of Fluid, got my EKG, met with the psychologist, met with the anesthesiologist, and then was wheeled into surgury and it was all over at around 5 p.m. If you see a doctor regularly and have had normal checkups you are more than likely good to go! Hope this was helpful.