The prohibition of oral fluid consumption previous to a surgical process is an ordinary medical apply designed to mitigate the chance of pulmonary aspiration. This complication happens when abdomen contents, together with liquids, are regurgitated and enter the lungs. Aspiration can result in severe well being points comparable to pneumonia, lung injury, and, in extreme instances, respiratory failure throughout or after the operation.
The first good thing about adhering to those pre-operative fasting pointers lies in lowering the quantity and acidity of abdomen contents. Traditionally, stringent fasting durations had been carried out. Nevertheless, present analysis helps permitting clear liquids as much as two hours earlier than anesthesia for a lot of sufferers. This apply helps keep hydration ranges and reduces affected person discomfort with out considerably growing aspiration threat. The precise pointers are primarily based on components comparable to age, well being standing, and the kind of surgical procedure being carried out.
