Glucose tolerance during anaesthesia and surgery. Comparison of general and extradural anaesthesia

The effects of general and extradural anaesthesia on glucose tolerance and plasma cortisol concentration in the surgical patient were assessed. Normal glucose tolerance and insulin release were observed under extradural anaesthesia, whereas general anaesthesia produced decreases in both glucose tolerance and insulin release. The plasma cortisol concentration was increased in both groups. These results indicate possible nutritional advantages in conducting surgery under extradural anaesthesia.