Preoperative Risk Stratification: Identifying Modifiable Risks for Optimization

Purpose of Review This chapter aims to examine current strategies for risk stratification in the preoperative setting. Risk stratification tools may include commercially available calculators, laboratory assessments, or screening tests. Risk stratification informs the surgical team on the need for preoperative optimization of modifiable risks. Optimization aims to improve clinical, hospital, and patient-centered outcomes across all phases of perioperative care. Preoperative optimization should be a collaborative, multidisciplinary effort that balances the patient's needs and values with the timing and urgency of surgery. Recent Findings Preoperative patient optimization is feasible, improves patient satisfaction, reduces clinical complications, and lowers hospital costs. Preoperative physicians are encouraged to use risk stratification tools to identify patients with modifiable risks and implement optimization plans to mitigate postoperative complications.

Automated summary

This chapter discusses the importance and methods of preoperative risk stratification. Risk stratification tools can help doctors identify modifiable risks in patients and develop optimization plans to reduce postoperative complications and improve patient satisfaction.