Maltodextrin preoperatively has been shown to improve:

1. Length of stay in hospital22,24

2. Patient satisfaction levels12,27

3. Muscular strength postoperatively26

4. Complication rates by:

• Reducing insulin resistance15,25,33,34

• Preserving muscle mass16

• Facilitating wound healing7

 

 

Patient satisfaction levels

• Patients feel hungry, thirsty and light headed preoperatively

• Patients often think the surgeon is responsible for theatre list planning, and may attribute excessive fasting times to the surgeon

• Anger at waiting and fasting is often not verbalised to the surgeon

• Dex provides some happiness and relief from starvation before surgery

• Enquire if your hospital is capable of offering Dex to your patients in the event of a delay