[Elective surgery and oral carbohydrate loading].

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Nutrition
• Perioperative Medicine

Background:

• Conventional fasting protocols are standard before surgery.
• The impact of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading on surgical outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading on the perioperative period.

Main Methods:

• 93 patients undergoing elective abdominal/retroperitoneal surgery were studied.
• The main group (n=47) received a carbohydrate-protein drink preoperatively.
• The control group (n=46) followed the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) fasting guidelines.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in perioperative glycemia were observed between groups.
• The carbohydrate loading group showed reduced intraoperative infusion volumes and more stable hemodynamics.
• Fewer patients in the carbohydrate group experienced organ dysfunction, complications, postoperative nausea/vomiting, and general weakness.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative carbohydrate loading is safe, not affecting perioperative glycemia.
• It leads to reduced intraoperative fluid requirements and improved hemodynamic stability.
• This nutritional strategy enhances patient comfort and satisfaction post-surgery.