Why cant you eat or drink before surgery?

Eating or drinking before surgery can lead to several complications that can jeopardize the safety and success of the procedure. Here are the primary reasons why patients are advised to fast before surgery:

- Aspiration: During general anesthesia, the patient's muscles relax, including those that control the airway. This relaxation can increase the risk of regurgitation or vomiting. If food or liquid is present in the stomach, it can be aspirated into the lungs, leading to a serious complication called aspiration pneumonitis. Aspiration can cause inflammation in the lungs, difficulty breathing, and even respiratory failure.

- Interference with Anesthesia: Eating or drinking before surgery can affect how the anesthesia interacts with the body. It can delay the onset of anesthesia and make it more difficult for the anesthesia team to monitor and control the patient's vital signs during the procedure. This can pose risks to the patient's safety.

- Increased Risk of Nausea and Vomiting: Anesthesia and certain surgical procedures can cause nausea and vomiting. Eating or drinking before surgery can further increase the likelihood of these complications, leading to discomfort and potential complications.

- Potential Obstruction: Food or liquid in the stomach can obstruct the surgeon's view and access during the procedure. This can complicate the surgery, increase the risk of injury or complications, and prolong the operation time.

- Delayed Healing: Consuming food or drinks before surgery can interfere with the healing process after the operation. The body's energy and resources are diverted towards digestion, which can slow down the healing process.

It's important for patients to strictly follow the fasting instructions provided by their healthcare team before surgery. The fasting guidelines help minimize the risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for the surgical procedure.