Preanesthetic Evaluation and Preparation of the Patient with Peripheral Edema

Peripheral edema is an occasional finding in the preanesthetic evaluation of patients in all age groups. It should be looked for in every patient anticipating surgery, and its correction is an essential part of the preparation for anesthesia. Edema of the lower extremities is commonly associated with varicosities, congestive heart failure, renal disease, hepatic disorders, and poor nutrition. In the differential diagnosis the results of both physical examination and laboratory tests are important, particularly as regards the possibility of protein depletion and the danger of hypovolemia. The authors believe that preoperative restoration of blood volume in the absence of an emergency should always be by high protein nutritional diet.