Patient Education
Pre-Op EKG with Interpretation
A quick, painless heart tracing with a clear, surgeon-ready interpretation to keep your surgery on track.
A pre-operative EKG records your heart's electrical activity so we can confirm your heart is ready for surgery and share a clear interpretation with your surgical team. It's a quick, painless step that's often part of a broader pre-operative evaluation and surgical risk assessment here in Los Angeles.
What to Expect During Your Pre-Op EKG
You'll rest comfortably while several small adhesive electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. The 12-lead EKG itself takes only a minute or two and is completely painless.
Dr. Golian personally reviews the tracing for rhythm, rate, and any signs of strain or prior cardiac changes. The interpretation is then summarized in a clear note that travels with your pre-operative labs to your surgeon and anesthesiologist.
How to Prepare for Your Pre-Op EKG
No special preparation is required, though it helps to wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows easy access to your chest. Continue your usual medications unless your surgical team or Dr. Golian advises otherwise.
Please bring an up-to-date list of your medications and any past heart history. If you have a known cardiac condition or are managing high blood pressure or cardiovascular risk factors, let us know so we can interpret your results in full context.
After Your EKG: Results & Next Steps
In most cases your results are available promptly, and Dr. Golian will walk you through what they mean for your upcoming procedure. A signed interpretation is forwarded to your surgical team to support clearance.
If the tracing shows anything that warrants a closer look, we coordinate timely cardiology referral, often in partnership with specialists including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, so your surgery stays on track.
Why a Pre-Op EKG Matters
- Surgical clearance. Gives your surgeon and anesthesiologist a clear baseline of your heart's electrical health.
- Hidden risk detection. Can reveal rhythm irregularities or strain before they become a problem in the operating room.
- Personal interpretation. Reviewed and signed by Dr. Golian, not just machine-read, with context from your full history.
- Seamless coordination. Results travel directly to your surgical team, including Cedars-Sinai referral available if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1Why do I need an EKG before surgery?
2Does a pre-op EKG hurt?
3How quickly will I get my EKG results?
4What happens if my EKG shows an abnormality?
5Do I need to stop my medications before the EKG?
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Ready for Your Pre-Op EKG with Interpretation?
Let Dr. Golian provide a clear, surgeon-ready cardiac evaluation in coordination with your surgical team.
Schedule a Consultation