ASA grading

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The ASA physical status classification system is a system for assessing the fitness of patients before surgery. In 1963 the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) adopted the five-category physical status classification system; a sixth category was later added. These are: 

1. A normal healthy patient. 

2. A patient with mild systemic disease , with no functional limitations

3. A patient with moderate systemic disease , with functional limitations

4. A patient with severe systemic disease that is a constant threat to life. 

5. A moribund patient who is not expected to survive even with or without the operation. 

6. A declared brain-dead patient whose organs are being removed for donor purposes. 

Drawback of this grading :

1.  Does not take into account the risk of surgery
2. Asymptomatic patient is not taken into account

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