Surgical Procedures in the Diabetic Patient

Abstract

Although the use of insulin has greatly reduced surgical risk, the diabetic patient remains an operative challenge. Dr. Bothe describes preoperative technics in elective and emergency situations, stressing the importance of thorough laboratory examinations and proper diabetic management. Even emergency operations should be temporarily postponed if diabetic acidosis is encountered, but this and other problems peculiar to diabetic patients can be overcome by cooperation between surgeon and medical consultant.