Question:
when time for surgery what does you blood suar have to be?

I am so affaid that my surgery will be cancelled because of my sugars. They have been out of control for a long time. I am trying hard but they hang around 250. I am willing to fast or what ever before surgery April 11th. What what point will the Dr. say your sugar is too high to operate?    — Pamela H. (posted on March 22, 2002)

March 21, 2002
Ask your surgeon NOW. Having extremely high blood sugars at the time of surgery can be dangerous. First of all, the stress of the surgery will make them go higher. Second, if they are very high, the chance of infection is greatly increased. If you can, go to an endocrinologist for help in getting them down, so you aren't taking those risks. You may very well be able to control your diabetes with diet and exercise post-op, but you still need to get things taken care of pre-op. Also, the anesthesiologist needs to know, so make sure he/she does. You'll have a glucose IV during the surgery. The anesthesiologist will monitor your sugar levels while the surgery is going on and can give you insulin if necessary.
   — garw

March 22, 2002
I am also diabetic, but, my sugars are mostly under control. The previous poster is right. Your sugars will sky rocket in the hospital, mine did. They had me on insulin shots during my stay even though I usually take oral meds. They will test you frequently to keep track of them. Dont worry, it will be okay. Just make sure everyone involved knows youre diabetic! Good luck and God bless!
   — Kerry P.

March 22, 2002
Just tell everyone you are diabetic. They will monitor your blood sugar before and during surgery and give you the appropriate amount of insulin to bring it down. This is a normal procedure, and they will do everything they can do keep your blood sugar in control. Also be prepared to get poked post-op alot cuz they will be monitoring your blood sugar often.
   — Terri H.

March 22, 2002
Pamela, I have had my surgery postponed because my surgeon at BTC in Ohio requires it to be 150 or below and stable for at least 2 weeks before performing surgery. I was very upset when they told me but then realized it was for my own good. My body needs to be at its strongest and we all know how hard it is for diabetics to heal-and we sure will have some serious healing to do-especially with the open RNY. I have been reschedualed for late April. My PCP changed my insulin and I feel so much better now that my blood sugar is in the right range. Hang in there-It will be OK. I'll keep you in my prayers!
   — Cheryl A.

March 22, 2002
First RELAX, they can put you temporarily on insulin, once your a post op its likely your diabetes will go away! 85% of type 21s are off all Diabetic meds after surgery and the weight loss that occurs. I would call and tell your surgeon whats up, so as to NOT delay your surgery. The out opf control numbers are likely from last suppering but more so from stress! Worry will drive your number up dramatically. Call your surgeon RIGHT NOW. Whats a couple weeks of uinsulin, just inconvenient. Althugh they may be able to increase or change your anti diabetic drugs to get it down. Mine was like yours, a few days post op it dropped like a rock and at 6 months out they told me I am NO LONGER DIABETIC!:)
   — bob-haller