Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effects of Preoperative Carbohydrate and Non-carbohydrate Loading on Gastric Emptying in Diabetic and Non-diabetic Patients Posted for Elective Surgery

Abstract

Background

Preoperative fasting for six hours and accepting clear fluids till two hours of surgery is followed as a regular practice. Carbohydrate-rich fluids antagonize catabolism and are claimed to be tolerated better. This study aims to compare the effect of carbohydrate-rich drinks on gastric volume and blood sugar control in diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing elective surgery with plain water.

Methods

Two hundred forty patients aged 40 to 65 undergoing elective surgery under regional anesthesia were randomized into diabetic control, diabetic study, non-diabetic control, and non-diabetic study. Control groups were given 400 ml of plain water, while the study group received 50 grams of dextrose dissolved in 400 ml of water two hours prior to surgery. Gastric volume was evaluated using USG, and thirst and discomfort were assessed using the Likert scale. Perioperatively, blood sugar values were monitored and kept under control using insulin.

Results

Mean gastric volume (ml) in diabetic control (35.3±12.95 ml), diabetic study (31.2±11.75 ml), non-diabetic control (29±11.42 ml), and non-diabetic study (30.4±9.12 ml) showed no statistically significant difference (p>0.05). Capillary blood glucose (CBG) values two hours post fluid intake showed a significant increase in CBG levels in the diabetic study (183.2±28.67 mg/dl) compared to the diabetic control group (138.66±15.81 mg/dl). The values returned to baseline within six hours. Thirst and discomfort were significantly lower in the study group of diabetic and non-diabetic populations.

Conclusion

We conclude that carbohydrate loading does not affect gastric volume in diabetics and non-diabetics. However, the sugar values do increase which may warrant hourly checking and administration of insulin in diabetics.