Diabetic patients require sound anesthetic care more frequently than their nondiabetic counterparts. The major risk factors for diabetics undergoing surgery need to be understood by anesthetist to avoid postoperative morbidities. Type of Surgery and Choice of Anesthesia: In the case of minor surgery, the patient should not be starved for a long duration. This will ensure that blood sugar homeostasis is not affected much.
General Anesthesia or Regional Anesthesia: The choice is depend upon the type of surgery and patient’s preference. For example, regional anesthesia is preferred in cataract surgery. However, regional anesthesia avoids starvation (before and after surgery), avoids hormonal and metabolic changes that occur during general anesthesia and facilitates early mobilization. It should be kept in mind that anesthetic requirements are lower and the risk of nerve injury is higher in…
