Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 4/1/2009

Question
I wondered if there is any risk in consuming food items high in fat and cholesterol (onion rings, etc.) prior to a surgery with anesthesia--I am concerned that somehow the cholesterol deposits could be a problem with the anesthetics and cause a blood clot in my heart or a heart attack.  Is this theoretically possible?

Answer
No, but it is not good to eat those foods because in the long run, they might contribute to coronary artery disease. The main thing about eating is that you stop at least 6-8 hours before surgery.


Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston