I went in today for a pre-surgery check with my primary care doctor (family practice). I am scheduled to have a C3 through C7 anterior disc fusion on April 5. After my doctor checked me out, he indicated that he cannot clear me for the surgery until I see a cardiologist. He gave me a printout of my ekg that says st junctional depression non specific. I am supposed to get the clearance for the fusion two weeks prior to the surgery, but an even bigger concern is the abnormal ekg. I am a 50 year old white male who is treated with medication for high blood pressure and very high cholesterol. Is the st depression indication something that should alarm me? Or is it a common incident in someone of my general health?
Hello, Since this is the major spine surgery you're scheduled for and your family doctor wants to make sure that you don't have any underlying cardiac issues. Though ST-segment depression >1 mm is significant and may indicate compromised blood flow to a specific portion of your heart. But before jumping to any conclusion it's better to visit your cardiologist. He may advise some more cardiac-related tests including Echo and Exercise/Presenting Stress test to get a better view of your heart. And will clear you for your surgery based on the results. Good Luck with the procedure. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.