Why Do I Need to Control My Diabetes Before Spine Surgery?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact extends beyond blood sugar control to various aspects of health, including surgical outcomes. If you have diabetes and are considering spine surgery, it is essential to understand how uncontrolled diabetes can affect the success of the procedure and your overall recovery.

Dr. Brandon A. Ortega, in Torrance and Long Beach, California, helps his patients understand how uncontrolled diabetes can affect the success of the procedure and your overall recovery. Call his practice, Brandon A. Ortega, MD, to find out why managing your diabetes is such a critical step before undergoing spine surgery.

INCREASED RISK OF COMPLICATIONS
Uncontrolled diabetes is associated with an increased risk of complications both during and after spine surgery. Elevated blood sugar levels can impair the body’s ability to heal and fight infection, leading to higher rates of surgical complications. Common complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes during spine surgery may include:

• Increased risk of surgical site infection
• Delayed wound healing and wound complications
• Impaired bone healing and fusion rates
• Higher rates of hardware failure and revision surgery
• Prolonged recovery time and extended hospital stays

IMPAIRED WOUND HEALING
High blood sugar levels can impair wound healing by disrupting the body’s natural healing processes. Chronic hyperglycemia can lead to poor circulation, decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, and impaired immune function, all of which contribute to delayed wound healing and increased susceptibility to infection. Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes may experience:

• Delayed closure of surgical incisions
• Increased risk of wound dehiscence (wound opening)
• Higher rates of surgical site infections

COMPROMISED BONE HEALING
Diabetes can also impair bone healing, which is critical for the success of spine surgery, particularly procedures involving fusion or stabilization of the spine. Elevated blood sugar levels can interfere with the formation of new bone tissue and compromise the integrity of spinal fusion constructs. As a result, individuals with uncontrolled diabetes may experience:

• Higher rates of pseudoarthrosis (non-union) or failed fusion
• Increased risk of hardware loosening or breakage
• Persistent pain and instability in the spine

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR DIABETES
Managing diabetes effectively is essential for optimizing surgical outcomes and promoting successful recovery after spine surgery. If you have diabetes and are considering surgery, here are some strategies to help control your blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of complications:

• Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive diabetes management plan tailored to your individual needs and medical history.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and adjust your diabetes medications or insulin regimen as needed to maintain tight glycemic control before and after surgery.
• Follow a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote overall health.
• Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or low-impact exercises, to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood sugar levels, and enhance cardiovascular health.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these habits can worsen diabetes complications and impair surgical outcomes.
• Communicate openly with your healthcare team about your diabetes management and any concerns or questions you may have about surgery, anesthesia, or postoperative care.

Uncontrolled diabetes can have significant implications for spine surgery, increasing the risk of complications, impairing wound healing, and compromising bone fusion. By effectively managing diabetes through lifestyle modifications, medication management, and regular monitoring, individuals with diabetes can optimize surgical outcomes, reduce the risk of complications, and promote successful recovery after spine surgery. If you have diabetes and are considering surgery, consult with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive diabetes management plan and discuss strategies to minimize the impact of diabetes on surgical outcomes.

Book an appointment with Dr. Brandon A. Ortega, spine surgeon in Torrance and Long Beach, California, to find out how with the proper diabetes management and support, you can navigate spine surgery with confidence and achieve the best possible results for your spinal health and overall well-being.