The prohibition of oral fluid consumption previous to a surgical process is a normal medical follow 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 critical well being points akin to pneumonia, lung injury, and, in extreme circumstances, respiratory failure throughout or after the operation.
The first advantage of adhering to those pre-operative fasting pointers lies in decreasing the quantity and acidity of abdomen contents. Traditionally, stringent fasting intervals have been carried out. Nonetheless, present analysis helps permitting clear liquids as much as two hours earlier than anesthesia for a lot of sufferers. This follow helps keep hydration ranges and reduces affected person discomfort with out considerably growing aspiration threat. The particular pointers are based mostly on elements akin to age, well being standing, and the kind of surgical procedure being carried out.
