The Risks of Surgery
In addition to the normal Risks of Surgery, diabetics face additional risks when having a surgical procedure. These risks are heightened if you have had diabetes for an extended period of time, frequently have high blood sugars, or if you are a brittle (have difficulty controlling your glucose level) diabetic. Patients who have already experienced major complications from diabetes, such as neuropathy or requiring an amputation are also at higher risk.
The Risks Diabetics Face After Surgery:
- Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) Or Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)
- Poor wound healing, slow wound healing, weak skin and tissue at site of surgery
- Infection, including infection of the wound, pneumonia, urinary tract infection or sepsis
- Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNK)
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Electrolyte Imbalance-A condition where electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium) rise or fall significantly, which can cause significant problems with the heart and the body’s fluid levels.
