Perioperative management of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common disease with serious microvascular and macrovascular complications. Individuals with DM have a higher rate of surgical procedures. A number of recent studies have demonstrated that poor perioperative glucose control is associated with adverse postoperative outcomes. There is growing evidence that interventions aimed at improving glycemic control in the perioperative period can improve short- and long-term outcomes in subjects with DM undergoing surgery. A variety of treatment options are now available for the management of DM. With judicious use of these regimens it should be possible to maintain good glycemic control in the perioperative period. A collaborative approach involving the surgical team, nursing professionals, primary care physicians, and specialists should be capable of successfully implementing effective regimens in the perioperative period.