Essential Precautions for Diabetics Before Any Procedure An Updated Guide for You
Diabetes and Procedures A Warning That Goes Beyond Blood Sugar
People with diabetes need to be even more attentive before undergoing any type of procedure — from the simplest to the most complex. That’s because diabetes directly affects the immune system, healing process, and the body’s inflammatory control.
Whether it’s surgery, a dental procedure, or even a cosmetic treatment, proper glycemic control and thorough medical evaluation are key to avoiding complications and ensuring safety.
Why Does Diabetes Increase the Risk During Procedures?
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) compromises the body’s response to infections, impairs tissue regeneration, and increases the risk of chronic inflammation.
Major risks include:
- Post-operative infections;
- Slow or ineffective wound healing;
- Metabolic imbalance during or after the procedure;
- Higher sensitivity to anesthetics and medications;
- Cardiovascular changes during anesthesia or sedation.
1° Strict Glycemic Control Before the Procedure
Before any intervention, it is essential for the patient to have stabilized blood sugar levels. Most medical protocols contraindicate procedures when glycemia exceeds 180 mg/dL.
Practical tips:
- Perform HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) testing
- Keep up with daily glucose monitoring
- Inform your provider about any recent episodes of hypo- or hyperglycemia
Warning: The risk of infection increases exponentially when HbA1c is above 8.0%.
2° Medical and Interdisciplinary Evaluation Is Essential
Before scheduling the procedure, a joint evaluation with the endocrinologist, the specialist performing the procedure (surgeon, dentist, dermatologist, etc.), and a cardiologist (if needed) is crucial.
This team can assess:
- Cardiovascular risks associated with anesthesia;
- Medications that need adjustment before and after the procedure;
- The ideal time for the procedure (preferably in the morning);
- Prophylactic antibiotic prescriptions when indicated.
3° Extra Care with Oral Hygiene and Wounds
Diabetic patients have greater difficulty fighting local infections, especially in surgical wounds or the oral cavity. In dentistry, for example, periodontitis (gum disease) is more frequent and severe in diabetics.
Before the procedure:
- Treat any infectious focus in advance (abscesses, gingivitis, etc.);
- Use antimicrobial mouth rinses (as prescribed);
- Stay well hydrated and keep the skin clean and intact.
4° Avoid Procedures During Periods of Decompensation
If you are experiencing uncontrolled blood glucose, active infection, fever, or recent medication changes, it is best to postpone the procedure.
Important: Even seemingly simple interventions, such as tooth extractions, can lead to major complications when performed without proper preparation.
5° Ask About the Biocompatibility of Materials
In biological dentistry and integrative medicine, the systemic inflammatory reaction caused by certain materials is also considered.
Diabetics, who already have a baseline inflammatory condition, should seek alternatives such as:
- Materials free from heavy metals;
- Anesthetics with lower inflammatory potential;
- Avoiding medications with high liver load.
Planning Means Safety
For individuals living with diabetes, any procedure — no matter how small — must be approached with the utmost responsibility. It’s not just about avoiding immediate complications but ensuring a smooth recovery without severe metabolic impacts.
The good news is that, with planning and a multidisciplinary team, diabetics can undergo procedures safely and with peace of mind.
To learn more, contact the team at Clínica Débora Ayala.
Scientific References Consulted:
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes – 2024
https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/47/Supplement_1 - Mayo Clinic. Diabetes and surgery: How to prepare
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diabetes-and-surgery - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes - ADA Science & Research Institute. Oral Health and Diabetes
https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute
