Agree completely with the previous comments. All of my patients undergo an extensive and comprehensive evaluation by our hospitalist internists whose sole function is to prepare patients for the operating room. They also follow them closely after surgery as well, as needed.
These internists know what we and the anesthesiologists need to know to go to the operating room safety, and provide risk assessment for the patients who have other co-morbidities, like heart disease, etc. It has cut down on our last minute cancellation rate by over 60%, and has provided us the best outcomes in our metropolitan area, despite having a more complex patient population.
So, a thorough physical exam prior to surgery, with EKG and lab work as needed, is key to getting a good outcome.
Hospitals are mandated to start antibiotics within an hour of the incision, and have them completed before incision as well. This information is also available by individual surgeons, and might be a fair indicator of their attention to detail.
Likewise, the post operative regimen for prevention of blood clots and the choice for anti-coagulation and duration are also key. Aspirin alone is not adequate, nor are external compression devices. Most studies would suggest either coumadin (a pill), or some form of daily injection (can be very expensive and has other drawbacks).
These are also important considerations in choosing a surgeon, at least in my opinion. This information would be a lot more useful than a glitzy office, as smooth sales pitch, or recommendations from friends at church.