Preoperative evaluation and preparation of the patient for cardiac surgery.

Cardiac surgery is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic costs. Preoperative assessment assists the clinician in identifying potential complications and facilitates discussion of these risks with the patient. Careful patient selection and preparation during preoperative evaluation may minimize morbidity, mortality, and resource use. This article outlines a system-based approach to preoperative evaluation and preparation of the patient undergoing cardiac surgery.