Pole bare in preparation for possible surgery (8)
I believe the answer is:
operable
'preparation for possible surgery' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.
'pole bare' is the wordplay.
'pole bare' can be anagrammed to 'OPERABLE'.
But, I am unsure how the anagram is indicated.
'in' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for operable that I've seen before include "Able to be run" , "Capable of being treated surgically" , "Fit for use" , "Capable of being put into practice" , "Able to function" .)