Management of Hyperglycemia in Adult Surgical Patients

Date of Award

Spring 2022

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Zachary Weik, PA-C

Abstract

Hyperglycemia is a common occurrence in adults (≥18-years-old) undergoing surgery. With an average perioperative hyperglycemia prevalence rate of 20-40% in general surgery patients and 80% in cardiac surgery patients, high blood glucose levels are associated with increased postoperative complications and adverse clinical outcomes. Management of hyperglycemia and avoidance of iatrogenic hypoglycemia is essential during the perioperative period for both diabetic and non-diabetic surgical patients. Understanding and recognizing the metabolic consequences of hyperglycemia in surgical patients can directly influence patient morbidity and mortality as well as improve surgical outcomes. This article emphasizes the importance of screening for hyperglycemia, monitoring blood glucose levels during the perioperative period as well as modulating the hyperglycemic response with insulin and the newer incretin-based therapies such as DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Link to Full Text

Additional Files

MGottschall_Poster Presentation.pdf (4883 kB)

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Management of Hyperglycemia in Adult Surgical Patients

Hyperglycemia is a common occurrence in adults (≥18-years-old) undergoing surgery. With an average perioperative hyperglycemia prevalence rate of 20-40% in general surgery patients and 80% in cardiac surgery patients, high blood glucose levels are associated with increased postoperative complications and adverse clinical outcomes. Management of hyperglycemia and avoidance of iatrogenic hypoglycemia is essential during the perioperative period for both diabetic and non-diabetic surgical patients. Understanding and recognizing the metabolic consequences of hyperglycemia in surgical patients can directly influence patient morbidity and mortality as well as improve surgical outcomes. This article emphasizes the importance of screening for hyperglycemia, monitoring blood glucose levels during the perioperative period as well as modulating the hyperglycemic response with insulin and the newer incretin-based therapies such as DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.