Influence of diabetes on mortality and morbidity following operations for obstructive jaundice

The influence of diabetes on mortality and morbidity following operations for obstructive jaundice has been assessed in 118 consecutive patients, all of whom received antibiotic cover, subcutaneous heparin and intravenous mannitol. 44 patients had diabetes mellitus (37%). There were 12 post operative deaths (10%). Factors which significantly contributed to mortality included; admission values for alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, haematocrit, bilirubin and age of patient over 70 years. Although mortality was not increased in diabetics, wound sepsis was significantly more common (20% and 4% respectively; p less than 0.02). The majority of infections were due to antibiotic sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Diabetes did not influence survival after operation for malignant disease.