Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient is scheduled for cardiac valve surgery in two weeks and is sent for dental clearance. You find heavy plaque and two non-restorable (hopeless) teeth. The best plan is to:
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Correct answer: C. Perform a prophylaxis AND extract the hopeless teeth before surgery
- A. Active oral infection should be eliminated BEFORE valve surgery to reduce endocarditis risk.
- B. Cleaning alone leaves hopeless infected teeth behind.
- C. Correct. Eliminate oral infection sources (extract hopeless teeth) and reduce plaque before cardiac surgery.
- D. Removing all teeth is excessive and unnecessary.
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