Preceding an operation.
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pre·op·er·a·tive (')prē-'äp-(ə-)rət-iv, -'äp-ə-.rāt- adj occurring, performed, or administered before and usu. close to a surgical operation <\preoperative care> <\preoperative medication>
pre·op·er·a·tive·ly adv
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adj.
before operation: referring to the condition of a patient or to treatment, such as sedation, given at this time.
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pre·op·er·a·tive (pre-opґər-ə-tiv) preceding an operation.Medical dictionary. 2011.