🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A 62-year-old male with a history of stable angina and a myocardial infarction (MI) 4 months ago is scheduled for an elective total knee arthroplasty. He is currently on aspirin, metoprolol, and a statin. What is the most appropriate next step in his pre-operative management?

A Proceed with surgery as planned, as his angina is stable.
B Obtain a pre-operative stress echocardiogram.
C Delay the elective surgery for at least 2 more months.
D Discontinue aspirin 7 days before surgery.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Elective non-cardiac surgery should be delayed for at least 6 months after an MI to allow for cardiac stabilization and significant reduction in perioperative cardiac event risk. Operating within 6 months carries a very high risk.

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