Prior to the COHAT

Physical Exam- This is the point when we notice a need for a COHAT, and recommend it to you. We may notice plaque/tartar on the teeth, or red inflamed gums called gingivitis.  In more severe cases, there are visibly loose teeth, fractured teeth, receding gingiva, or other pathology.  We will point out to you the reason for recommending a COHAT so you understand why this recommendation was made. In addition, the physical exam can help identify certain risk factors for anesthesia so we can weigh the risks and benefits of recommending this procedure.

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Preoperative blood work-  This blood work is completed prior to the COHAT (generally within 6 weeks).  Bloodwork gives us information about major organ systems (liver, kidney) and information about white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.  This information allows us to make changes to anesthesia protocol ( if needed) as an added safety measure.  If the bloodwork gives us information that anesthesia may be unsafe or not advised, we will postpone the COHAT and focus on the problems noted on bloodwork.