preparation of a diabetic for elective surgery
Last reviewed 01/2018
The protocols are different according to the severity of the diabetes.
Insulin dependent diabetics and poorly controlled non-insulin dependent diabetics will require intravenous glucose and insulin therapy.
Patients with diabetes which is well controlled by diet alone should not require special therapy, but blood glucose readings should be taken before, during and immediately after the operation as a precaution. Major operations may warrant post-operative insulin in these patients. They should be encouraged to start eating again as soon as possible.