2025 澳大利亚指南:儿童及青少年糖尿病围手术期管理
Abstract
The periprocedural period represents a critical time for children and adolescents with diabetes, during which they are at increased risk of complications. The management of diabetes in this context has become increasingly complex due to the wide range of available insulin regimens and glucose monitoring technologies. The Australasian Periprocedural Guideline for Children and Adolescents with Diabetes Mellitus has been co-developed by New Zealand Paediatric Endocrine Society, Australia and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Society for Paediatric Anaesthesia in New Zealand and Australia, and consumer representatives. The guideline emphasises the importance of involving individuals with diabetes and their caregivers in the development of management plans, adopting a multidisciplinary approach when appropriate. It provides detailed guidance on procedure classifications, the perioperative use of existing continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps, fasting protocols, perioperative intravenous fluid and insulin administration, and hypoglycaemia management strategies. By adhering to this guideline, healthcare providers can deliver safe, comprehensive, and patient-centred care throughout the periprocedural period.
Keywords Type one diabetes, Child, Periprocedural guideline, General anaesthesia
# Executive summary for perioperative care for children and adolescents with diabetes
1. Involve individuals with diabetes and their caregivers in developing pre-, intra-, and post-procedural plans.
2. The periprocedural plan should be individualised, using a multidisciplinary approach as required. This may in involve but not limited to: anaesthetic team, surgical team, general paediatric team, paediatric endocrinologist, and diabetes nurse practitioners and diabetes clinical nurse specialists.
3. Pre-, intra-, and post-procedural glucose levels should target 5-10 mmol/L.
4. Clearly define type of procedure – elective vs. emergency AND minor vs. major.
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5. Use existing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and/or insulin pump (Pump) where possible for minor procedures.
a. If doing so, please complete Pump and CGM Checklists. (Appendix A and appendix B respectively)
6. Provide clear fasting instructions with pre-procedural plan according to both anaesthetic needs and for insulin regimen.
7. Prescribe intraoperative intravenous fluids and intravenous insulin infusion rates as required.
8. Provide a clear hypoglycaemic management plan.
9. Provide post-operative plan to reinstate usual insulin regimen.
10. Proactively manage/plan for post-operative nausea and vomiting.
Introduction
The periprocedural period for children and adolescents with diabetes is a critical time when they are at risk of developing hyperglycaemia or hypoglycaemia due to several factors, including acute illness, fasting, or post-operative issues such as nausea, vomiting, and pain. Additionally, managing diabetes has become more complex due to the variety of insulin regimens (both injections and pumps) and glucose monitoring methods (fingerprick blood glucose levels and continuous glucose monitoring). The introduction of new medications for managing type 2 diabetes (T2D) further adds to the complexity.
This periprocedural guideline provides pathways to individualise the care of children and adolescents with diabetes. Adopting a multi-disciplinary approach and involving the young person and their wider caregivers in the discussion of how the individual's diabetes is to be managed will allow for better outcomes [1, 2].
Consistent management approaches are essential to minimize potential negative impacts on glycemia and overall wellbeing, aiming to eliminate systemic barriers to achieving gold standard healthcare. A recent systematic review revealed increased disparities in access to surgical care and outcomes among Australian and New Zealand Indigenous children [3]. Therefore, it is crucial for contemporary periprocedural guidelines to address all types of diabetes and their management, while also addressing and mitigating any adverse outcomes associated with social determinants of health.
It is also crucial to consider various aspects of care for children and adolescents with diabetes, such as their other medical issues, mental health, developmental stage, and current age [4]. Ideally, this involves specialist paediatric diabetes teams, though availability and resources
may vary by healthcare facility. Therefore, it is essential to provide clear, accessible guidelines that healthcare staff of all backgrounds can follow, ensuring comprehensive care for children and adolescents with diabetes.
Methodology
Relevant literature was identified using electronic database searches of EMBASE, Medline, and PubMed using the terms "perioperative", "periprocedural", "paediatric" or "pediatric" and "diabetes mellitus" and included any relevant references of the articles found. The International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) clinical practice consensus guidelines 2022: Management of children and adolescents with diabetes requiring surgery was the predominant influence on informing these guidelines.
A co-design approach was used in each phase of developing the guideline. Consumer groups, specialist groups and health care professionals (HCP) working with young people with diabetes mellitus were identified as key stakeholders. Consumer groups with lived experience provided young person-centric recommendations in each aspect of the guideline. Paediatric endocrinologists and general paediatricians with a diabetes interest in the Australia and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (ANZPED), and the New Zealand Paediatric Endocrine society (NZPES) and paediatric anaesthetists in the Society of Paediatric Anaesthesia in New Zealand and Australia (SPANZA) were consulted on both the draft and final versions of the guideline. This ensured the evidence-based recommendations were supported by current clinical practice. Feedback was sought from HCPs supporting young people with diabetes in the periprocedural period through the validation phase of the development of the guideline.
After drafting the guideline, it was circulated among clinical networks and consumer stakeholders as previously described. Feedback was gathered from consumers and experts through electronic communications, departmental meetings, and conferences. A key gap identified was the lack of a family-facing checklist for healthcare professionals to use when planning procedures. In response, a checklist focusing on the use of pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during the pre-procedural period has been developed and is included in Appendix A (patient-facing checklist) and Appendix B (HCP checklist). Recommendations based on this feedback and supported by current evidence-based literature have been integrated into the draft guideline.
Draft management flow diagrams were created based on the literature review and stakeholder feedback. A validation tool was then developed and distributed to HCPs who regularly interact with children and adolescents with diabetes during the periprocedural period. This
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tool included clinical vignettes with extended matching questions designed to align with the management flow diagrams. Iterative revisions were made based on the feedback received.
The validation exercise targeted a range of HCPs, including surgical house officers, general paediatric registrars, anaesthetists, general paediatricians, endocrinologists, diabetes clinical nurse specialists, and registered nurses. Recruitment occurred through teaching sessions, annual meetings, and communications within clinical networks such as the New Zealand Clinical Network for Children and Young People with Diabetes and the Australia and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes. Results were collected using the Qualtrics data tool and with simple descriptive statistics.
Ethics approval was obtained from the University of Otago prior to data collection (Ethics reference #D23/192).
The validation exercise, conducted using Qualtrics for data collection, received a total of 128 responses from various healthcare professionals: surgical and paediatric house officers (5), general paediatric registrars (23), senior medical officers (57), diabetes clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners (6), and registered nurses (7). The mean correct response rate was 83% (ranging from 9 to 99%, with a standard deviation of 9.6), and the median was 96%. Notably, Clinical Vignette 2, which involved a patient with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) requiring emergency surgery, had a correct response rate of only 9% due to a failure to recognize the need for "emergency surgery." Based on these results and additional feedback, improvements were made to the clinical pathways.
A final draft with the feedback integrated from the validation exercises and from key stakeholders was circulated, before being submitted for publication. Post publication the authors will promote the guidelines, using multiple modes of communication. These include scientific meetings, stakeholder website e-bulletins and membership communications, and webinars. Revision of this guideline is recommended 12-24 months after publication.
Pre-procedural management
General considerations
We have provided pre-procedural checklists for caregivers for children and adolescents with diabetes (appendix A) and HCPs professionals (appendix B). The patient facing checklist (Appendix A) should be provided in advance as able (elective surgery for example), to give the family time to ask questions and implement the plan. Part of the patient facing checklist is to develop the pre-procedural insulin (and other medication) strategy, which is informed by the management algorithms described below. The checklist is a starting point for
shared decision making and includes messaging regarding glucose and ketone monitoring,
The HCP checklist (Appendix B) directs the HCP to creating the management plan, while Appendix C provides an example of the minimum requirements for documentation. It is important to outline which team member is responsible for documentation.
This documentation includes:
$\bullet$ Defining nature of procedure (major, or minor, elective, or emergency - see below).
$\bullet$ Review of glycaemic metrics: HbA1c, recent time in range (if using CGM) recent finger prick glucose values.
* Current management: type of insulin regimen and type of glucose monitoring.
$\bullet$ If on Multi Daily Injection (MDI) regimen: Dose, timing and type of long-acting insulin and timing and type of rapid acting insulin with carbohydrate ratio and insulin sensitivity factor to guide dosing.
$\bullet$ If an insulin pump: type of automation with CGM, basal rate, carbohydrate ratio and insulin sensitivity factor used throughout a standard day.
* Current capillary BGL and capillary ketone measurements.
$\bullet$ Recent/current blood tests if relevant: standard electrolyte levels including sodium, potassium, urea, and creatinine.
Reviewing the status of diabetes care is crucial and can provide an opportunity to optimize therapy if needed [5]. Key goals include creating a clear management plan for the pre-, intra-, and post-operative periods, and maintaining blood glucose levels within the target range of 5–10 mmol/L during the periprocedural period. It is important to weigh the benefits and risks of proceeding with a procedure in the context of elevated pre-proce-dure HbA1c or glucose levels. Delaying the procedure to optimize management should only be considered if pro-ceeding as planned poses a high risk and if postponing is deemed in the individual's best interest.
A recent retrospective observational study found no correlation between pre-procedure HbA1c levels and post-operative outcomes in the paediatric population [6]. Adult data, primarily from retrospective observational studies, show variable post-operative outcomes associated with high HbA1c levels, defined as greater than 58-64 mmol/mol (7.5-8%) [7].
On the day of the operation, the individual should undergo regular blood glucose testing, and additional ketone testing if blood glucose levels exceed 15 mmol/L (preferably using their personal testing kit if available).
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Insulin should be administered according to the protocol outlined below.
Classification of procedure
Minor Procedures (<2 h) include procedures requiring brief general anaesthesia or heavy sedation, usually less than 2 h duration, where rapid recovery is anticipated. The child is expected to be able to eat by the next meal (within 2-4 h) and will usually be discharged on the day of the procedure.
Major Procedures (>2 h) include prolonged surgery or investigations where the individual will not be discharged on the day of the procedure, has an increased risk of postoperative nausea or vomiting, or is unable to eat adequately post-operatively for a significant amount of time.
Elective Procedures are planned in advance where the individual is well prior, and a perioperative plan is well established prior to the day of surgery. These may be minor or major.
Emergency Procedures, also known as non-elective, acute, emergent, urgent surgery, includes procedures treating urgent conditions that cannot be delayed. These may be minor or major.
If there are concerns around whether the procedure is major or minor this should be clarified with the anaes- thatist and surgical team.
Glycaemic target range (5-10 mmol/L)
The recommended periprocedural target blood or CGM glucose is 5-10 mmol/L [5]. The higher end of this range may be indicated in young people with diabetes who are prone to hypoglycaemia, or have considerable fear of hypoglycaemia [8].
Hyperglycaemia Management:
1. If blood glucose levels (BGL) exceed 15 mmol/L for more than 60 min:
* Initiate glucose level correction and measure blood ketones.
* A significant ketone level is defined as $\ge 1$ mmol/L.
$\bullet$ If significant ketones are present (≥ 1 mmol/L):
* Start intravenous (IV) maintenance fluids with insulin (either IV or subcutaneous, depending on the timing of the procedure or the reason for elevated ketones).
$\bullet$ Refer to Appendix D for examples of IV fluid and insulin prescribing.
$\bullet$ Do not use boluses of intravenous rapid acting insulin.
* If it has been more than 3 h since the last insulin correction, administer a correction dose of subcutaneous insulin using the patient's insulin sensitivity factor (ISF), aiming for a target glucose level of 8.0 mmol/L.
* To calculate the ISF if not known, use the formula: 100 / total daily dose of insulin (ISF represents the amount by which 1 unit of rapid-acting insulin will lower the individual's BGL).
* For individuals not prescribed insulin (e.g., those with type 2 diabetes), calculate the correction dose as 0.1 units/kg, with a maximum of 10 units.
Case Example - Insulin Sensitivity Factor Calculation
|Case Example|Case Example| |---|---| |A 12-year-old with T1D on an MDI regimen has a total daily dose (TDD) of 50 units. They cannot recall their insulin sensitivity factor (ISF). Their current blood glucose level (BGL) is 16 mmol/L, and the target glucose level is 8 mmol/L.|| |Calculation Steps:|Calculation Steps:| |1. Determine the ISF: o ISF = 100 / TDD o ISF = 100 / 50 o ISF = 2 (This means 1 unit of insulin will lower the BGL by 2 mmol/L)|| |2. Calculate the glucose difference: o Difference between current BGL and target BGL = 16 mmol/L - 8 mmol/L|| |3. Calculate the correction dose:|| |4. Correction dose = Difference in glucose / ISF|| |5. Correction dose = 8 mmol/L / 2|| |6. Correction dose = 4 units|| |7. Correction dose = 8 mmol/L|| |8. Correction dose = 4 units||
1. Determine the ISF: ISF = 100 / TDD
* ISF = 100 / TDD
* ISF = 100 / TDD
$\bullet$ ISF = 2 (This means 1 unit of insulin will lower the BGL by 2 mmol/L).
2. Calculate the glucose difference:
* Difference between current BGL and target BGL = 16 mmol/L - 8 mmol/L
* Difference = 8 mmol/L
3. Calculate the correction dose:
* Correction dose = Difference in glucose / ISF
$\circ$ Correction dose = 8 mmol/L / 2
Correction dose = 4 units
Result: The correction dose is 4 units of rapid-acting insulin administered subcutaneously.
Hypoglycaemic Management (defined as <5.0mmol/L in the periprocedural period):
* If the patient is an IV insulin infusion: Stop the insulin infusion immediately AND give 10% glucose at 1-2ml/kg.
* If the patient is fasting and lacks IV access: Provide clear fluids such as Pedialyte e to raise glucose levels. Aim to administer 0.3 g of glucose per kilogram of body weight.
* After treatment, check BGL in 10 min and repeat treatment if necessary until BGL is above 5 mmol/L.
Case Example - Hypoglycaemia Management with Pedialyte
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|Case Example| |---| |A child weighs 21kg, and records a glucose level of 3.3mmol/L| |Calculation Steps: For a child weighing 21 kg: 21 kg × 0.3 g/kg = 6.3 g of glucose needed.| |Pedialyte contains 2.5 g of glucose per 100 ml.| |To deliver 6.3 g of glucose, the child would need approximately 280 ml of Pedialyte (since 6.3 g / 2.5 g per 100 ml = 252 ml, rounding up to 280 ml for safety).|
2. Important Considerations:
● Avoid relying solely on sensor glucose levels for managing hypoglycaemia, as sensor readings may lag behind capillary glucose levels. This delay can lead to unnecessary treatment for hypoglycaemia.
* If the patient was on an IV insulin infusion: After correcting the hypoglycaemia, consider restarting the infusion at half the previous rate once BGL is above 5 mmol/L.
Peri-procedure glucose monitoring
Blood Glucose Level (BGL) Measurement:
* Frequency: Measure BGL at least hourly during the procedure. If there are changes in insulin management, increase the measurement frequency to every 30 min.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM):
$\bullet$ Use in Procedure: CGM may be used in the intra-operative setting if deemed appropriate and if there are concurrent blood glucose measurements to confirm accuracy. However, there is limited data on CGM use during major surgeries [5, 9].
$\bullet$ Setting Alarms: Configure CGM alarms for hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic thresholds for added safety.
$\bullet$ Device Placement: Consider the type of medical devices used during the procedure and cross-reference with the manufacturer's recommendations. CGM devices should not be used if diathermy is required. Evidence suggests that CGM is less affected by proximity to the surgical site if positioned away from it [10].
* Compression: Compression (e.g., from lying on the arm with the CGM sensor) can impair CGM accuracy due to restricted blood flow. To minimize inaccuracies, place the CGM in an area of the body that will not be compressed and is visible throughout the procedure. This is particularly important for
young children who may have medical staff and equipment surrounding them.
* Medication Interference: Be aware that certain medications, including paracetamol, hydroxyurea, lisinopril, salbutamol, and atenolol, may affect CGM accuracy [5].
Special Considerations:
$\bullet$ MRI and CT Scans: CGM devices currently have variable recommendations for removal requirement for radiological studies. Please seek individual manufacturer guidance for further advice.
$\bullet$ X-ray: Keep the CGM device out of the direct radiation field and cover it with a lead apron if x-ray is used. Refer to the manufacturer's guide for additional recommendations.
Smartphones as CGM Receivers:
* Functionality: Smartphones often serve as CGM receivers, displaying real-time glucose measurements via specific apps (e.g., Dexcom G6/G7 app, CareLink Connect app, FreeStyle LibreLink App). They must be connected to the CGM via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) and within six meters of the sensor.
* Connectivity: For continuous monitoring, ensure that smartphones in the operating theatre have internet connectivity through mobile data or Wi-Fi.
$\bullet$ Documentation: Include intraoperative technology requirements in the checklist and document them. Ensure that smartphones used as CGM receivers are unlocked by the patient or caregiver for accessibility during the procedure.
Insulin pump and automated insulin delivery considerations
Insulin Pump Use:
* Restrictions: Insulin pumps cannot be used during CT or MRI scans. Consult the manufacturer's website for the latest safety information and recommendations.
$\bullet$ Documentation: Develop an individualized plan in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and in consultation with the multidisciplinary team.
Automated Insulin Delivery:
* General Use: For children and adolescents using an automated insulin delivery platform, the system is generally safe to use if both the CGM and insulin pump are compatible with the procedural settings.
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$\bullet$ Algorithm Set Points: If there are concerns that hypoglycaemia may ensue due to prolonged fast, AID users may utilize additional tools depending on the platform they have, which are designed to avoid hypoglycaemia - for example higher algorithm sensor glucose targets, exercise mode, alternative profiles, or "ease off".
$\bullet$ Pre-Operative Checklists: Ensure that technology use plans are documented in the pre-operative checklists (Appendix A and Appendix B) to guide the management of automated insulin delivery throughout the periprocedural period.
Management algorithms
The following algorithms have been developed to guide the plan. They can be used to document the peri-procedure plan - see appendix C for a suggested documentation format.
Elective minor surgery
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Elective major surgery
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Emergency surgery

Special situations
Type two diabetes mellitus
Different medications used to maintain normoglycaemia in type two diabetes pose their own individual risks. There is an increasing variety of medications used for the management of T2D, particularly in the adolescent period.
Sodium glucose transport protein-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors should be withheld for two days prior to the procedure and on day of procedure for most procedures due to the risk of euglycaemic ketoacidosis [11]. This includes procedures requiring bowel prep or low-calorie diet, reduced oral intake > 12 h (including pre-, intra- and post-procedural periods), or other scenarios deemed as a higher risk for DKA for example; general or spinal anaesthesia, removal of organs, major alteration of normal anatomy, major body cavity opened, frequent requirements for blood transfusion or inotropic support, HDU/ICU level postoperative care. Withholding SGLT-2 inhibitors can be reduced to one day for minor procedures
that do not include bowel prep. If withholding SGLT-2 inhibitors is not possible due to the acuity of the procedure, then a check for ketones or a blood gas prior to surgery is appropriate. These recommendations are based on practices from adult data as there is currently limited paediatric data published for the periprocedural period [11].
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) agonists can be prescribed as a once daily dose or once weekly dose. There is no consensus on effectiveness of omitting doses to reduce risk of aspiration. Extended fasting up to 24 hours may be indicated to ensure gastric emptying. For acute non-elective procedures where patients are not able to sufficiently fast, a range of options are available to reduce risk of aspiration. Please discuss with anaesthetist. All other oral agents, such as metformin and other glucose-lowering agents, should be withheld on the morning of surgery to avoid complications.
Type 2 Diabetes Medications
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 SGLT2i Management
 Metformin is associated with developing lactic acidosis, especially in those pre-existing with renal disease [5]. Due to this, recommendations as per flow management diagrams are made.
Humulin-N® or Protaphane® (NPH)
As these insulins have a later-onset peak of action there is a higher risk of hypoglycaemia it is recommended to
commence IV fluids of 0.9% saline, with 5% dextrose and 20mmol of KCL/L. For minor procedures it is recommended to give 50-70% of the morning dose, and then return to usual doses in the evening if recovered. For major surgery, these insulins should be omitted on the morning of the procedure, and refer to the fluid and insulin guide as per the major surgery flow chart above, and
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then re-start once recovered and IV insulin and fluids are no longer required.
Periprocedural intravenous fluids
The preferred maintenance fluids are 0.9% saline, with 5% dextrose and 20mmol KCL / L bag. In most cases this can be used to maintain glucose levels between 5 and 10mmol/L and prevent hypokalaemia. If glucose levels are > 15mmol/L, dextrose should not be added or if already started, the fluids changed. Refer to instruction on glucose corrections with insulin if glucose levels persist above 15mmol/L for > 60 min. During major surgery, intermittent checking of potassium and electrolyte levels should occur on discussion with the anaesthetist. Local guidelines may vary and should be consulted when appropriate.
Appendix D provides examples for fluid rate calculations.
Periprocedural intravenous insulin
Insulin infusions are made by adding 50 units of rapid-acting insulin to 49.5 ml of 0.9% saline. This will make a 1 unit/ml solution. Label carefully. It can last 24 h.
Insulin Infusion
If an insulin infusion is required and they are not hypo-glycaemic (>5mmol/L), their starting insulin infusion rate should be 0.05u/kg/hr.
Case Example - Insulin Infusion Calculation
Note Very young age or presence of a honeymoon period (for example recently diagnosed and/or on a low total daily dose of insulin (<0.5u/kg/day) can be a determining factor in reducing insulin infusion rates (starting rate 0.02–0.03 units/kg/hr).
Higher infusion rates can be considered if on higher insulin doses for example during adolescence, using a starting rate of 0.07 units/kg/hr if an adolescent.
An important exception to insulin infusion starting rate is if long-acting insulin (e.g., glargine, ) has been given in previous 24 h. In this scenario, start at 0.03 units/kg/hr and titrate as required to maintain glucose levels between 5-10mmol/L.
If a child is on an insulin pump, a starting rate of 0.05u/kg/hr can start when the pump is disconnected, and the glucose level is above 5.0mmol/L.
Post-procedural management
General post-procedural care
* Eating and Drinking: Most patients can resume eating and drinking after procedures with minimal postoperative nausea and vomiting. If this is the case, restarting their usual insulin regimen according to the plan is reasonable.
Case Example
A 12-year-old with T1D on an MDI regimen and weighs 50kg. TDD is 50 units.
Calculation Steps:
Starting insulin infusion rate is 0.05 units/kg/hr
Infusion rate is 0.05 x 50 per hour
Result: 2.5U/hr administered intravenously
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For individuals on MDI or insulin pump therapy
* Regimen Resumption: The timing for resuming subcutaneous insulin will depend on factors such as the individual's usual medication regimen, expected recovery time, and their ability to eat a full meal.
* Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: Consider the impact of postoperative nausea and vomiting on the patient's ability to eat. Manage this appropriately to ensure adequate nutrition and insulin coverage.
* Rapid-Acting Insulin: Administer rapid-acting insulin before the first anticipated meal that the patient is able to tolerate.
* If Significant Nausea and Vomiting: If postoperative nausea and vomiting are severe, or if there is uncertainty about the patient's ability to eat, start with clear fluids and a small amount of carbohydrates. Delay insulin administration until the patient's ability to tolerate food is confirmed.
Continuous glucose monitoring
$\bullet$ Reattachment: If the CGM had to be removed before the procedure, encourage reapplying the CGM as soon as it is practical to ensure continuous glucose monitoring and effective management.
Concluding statements
The periprocedural period poses a high risk for the development of hypo- or hyperglycaemia in patients. With the introduction of new diabetes management modalities and varying levels of practitioner experience, it is crucial to have a standardized protocol that ensures consistent care while allowing for individual treatment strategies tailored to each young patient and their support network.
A multi-disciplinary approach is essential to reduce the risk of complications. This team should include the Paediatric Diabetes Team, the patient with diabetes, their caregivers, as well as nursing staff, paediatric junior doctors, and anaesthetists.
Across Australasia, different healthcare settings, including tertiary hospitals with on-site endocrinologists, secondary hospitals led by general paediatricians, and private hospitals, care for young people with diabetes during the periprocedural period. Depending on the location and time, initial management may involve house officers and paediatric registrars, with access to high-care dependency units, adult intensive care units, or paediatric intensive care units.
This variability underscores the need for a validated, nationally standardized protocol that is informed by the latest evidence and culturally appropriate. These guidelines have been developed using a co-design approach to ensure that the needs of individuals and their caregivers are effectively addressed.
Appendix A: patient checklist prior to surgery
General
* Aim for glucose level is within the target range of 5-10 mmol/L, checking glucose at every 3 h (see below for those that use CGM).
* Check blood ketones every 4 h while fasting.
* Insulin: Develop pre-procedural insulin plan with HCP.
* Discuss fasting instructions.
PUMP
* Check the pump battery is charged/replaced if pump battery is at 50% or lower.
* Replace infusion set 24 h prior to procedure.
* Check there is enough insulin at the reservoir for at least 36 h.
* Ensure the infusion set is far away from the body part planned to be operated on.
* Ensure sufficient infusion set tubing to ensure device can be comfortably positioned (if applicable).
$\bullet$ Adjust BGL target range to pre-agreed range for the procedure.
* Check the pump's automation delivery feature is on if applicable e.g., Smartguard, Control IQ, CamAPS FX.
* If the pump pairs to a phone, check phone audio is "ON", and Airplane mode is "OFF".
* Pump device should be readily accessible to medical team.
CGM
$\bullet$ CGM should have at least 72 h of expected lifetime, insert a new sensor 48 h prior to procedure if not.
* Check transmitter age - should have at least 72 h of expected lifetime.
* Check the CGM is successfully communicating to the receiver (pump, phone, or dedicated receiver).
* Check the location of the sensor is not near the planned site of surgery.
* Check capillary glucose level is congruent with CGM glucose level and calibrate if necessary.
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Appendix B: health care professional checklist prior to surgery
Medical Pre-procedure
$\bullet$ Check if patient and caregiver have completed the pre-procedural checklists.
$\bullet$ Define procedure and major or minor.
$\bullet$ Discuss fasting instructions.
$\bullet$ Develop insulin, fluid, and medication plan using the management algorithms, discuss and confirm with patient/caregiver, document the plan.
$\bullet$ Discuss with family access to wifi or mobile data network within theatre to continue carer's CGM/ insulin pump smartphone applications throughout procedure if applicable.
● Discuss if diathermy is being used and decide if CGM or insulin pump is still advisable, and/or discuss infusion site and CGM site placement away from diathermy field.
Appendix C: medical Documentation example
|Date||Procedure type - MAJOR/MINOR| |---|---|---| |Diabetes type||| |Weight||Height| |HbA1c|Current|Previous| |||| |Insulin regimen (circle)|Insulin Pump|MDI BD| |Pump regimen (circle)|LGS|PLGS HCL| |CGM system|Other|Libre Dexcom| |Other Meds||| |Insulin||| |Total Daily Dose||Dose and last time given:| |Long (type)||Breakfast| |Short (type)||Lunch| |||Dinner| |||Snacks| |||Last time given:| |ISF||CR|
Pre-operative Plan
Fasting Instructions
Target BGL Range
Medications - night prior
Medications - morning
Fasting hypoglycaemia Rx
Other
Intra-operative Plan
Glucose Monitoring
Insulin Delivery
Other
Post-operative Plan
Location post-procedure
Glucose monitoring
Insulin Delivery
Other medications
Other
Appendix D: maintenance fluids
Isotonic fluids with dextrose are used for paediatric patients. Commonly chosen fluids include 0.9% sodium chloride with 20mmol/500 ml Potassium Chloride and 5% dextrose. Please consult local guidelines for preferable fluid type.
Paediatric Maintenance Fluid Rate Calculations.
Paediatric fluid rates are dictated by the patient's weight. The hourly (ml/hr) calculation is the first 10 kg: 4x (weight up to 10 kg) + the second 10 kg: 2 x (weight from 10 kg to 20 kg) + remainder of weight: 1 x (remainder of weight). A maximum of 100 ml/hr is used as this would be reasonable for an adult maintenance fluid rate.
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Case Examples
1. A child weighs 7 kg. Use the formula: Maintenance fluid rate = 4 mL/kg/hr
Calculation: 4 mL/kg/hr × 7 kg = 28 mL/hr
2. A child weigh weight of 18 kg. Use the formula:
a. For the first 10 kg: 10 kg × 4 mL/kg/hr = 40 mL/hr
b. For the next 8 kg (from 11 kg to 18 kg): 8 kg × 2 mL/kg/hr = 16 mL/hr
Calculation: 40 mL/hr + 16 mL/hr = 56 mL/hr
3. A child weighs 56 kg. Use the formula:
a. For the first 10 kg: 10 kg × 4 mL/kg/hr = 40 mL/hr
b. For the next 10 kg (from 11 kg to 20 kg): 10 kg × 2 mL/kg/hr = 20 mL/hr
c. For the remaining 36 kg (from 21 kg to 56 kg): 36 kg × 1 mL/kg/hr = 36 mL/hr
Calculation: 40 mL/hr + 20 mL/hr + 36 mL/hr = 96 mL/hr
Abbreviations
BGL blood glucose level
CGM Continuous Glucose Monitoring
DKA Diabetic ketoacidosis
GA General anaesthetic
HbA1c Haemoglobin A1c
HCP Health care professional
ISF Insulin sensitivity factor
IV Intravenous
MDI Multiple Daily Injections
NBM Nil by mouth
SGLT2i Sodium Glucose Transport Protein-2 inhibitors
T1D Type One Diabetes
T2D Type Two Diabetes
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the input of those with lived experience with diabetes, who have contributed to writing these guidelines. The authors would like to acknowledge members of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes who have also provided expert opinion on the guidelines.
Author contributions
NJ, C.J. M.D.B, S.S all contributed to the main text and reviewed the manuscript. NJ prepared the management flow diagrams.
Funding
The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose.
Data availability
No datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.
Declarations
Ethical approval and consent to participate
This was not a clinical study. The University of Otago Human Ethics Committee approved the following procedures: validity testing of the management algorithms/flow charts (Ethics reference #D23/192). These activities were online completed by participants in New Zealand, with no local study procedures, excluding the requirement for local ethics approvals.
Consent for publication
Not applicable.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare no conflicting interests.
Received: 28 August 2024 / Accepted: 25 July 2025
Published online: 08 December 2025
References
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2. Societies JBD. Self-management of diabetes in hospital. 2012.
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3. Ingram M-C, Becker S, Olson SL, Tsai S, Sarkar A, Rothstein DH, et al. Disparities in surgical health service delivery and outcomes for Indigenous children. J Pediatr Surg. 2023;58(3):375-83. 4. McDarby V, Delamater A, DiMeglio L, Gajewska K, de Wit M, Goethals ER et al. ISPAD Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2022: Psychological care of children, adolescents and young adults with diabetes. 2022. 5. Kapellen T, Agwu JC, Martin L, Kumar S, Rachmiel M, Cody D et al. ISPAD clinical practice consensus guidelines 2022: management of children and adolescents with diabetes requiring surgery. Pediatr Diabetes. 2022;23(8). 6. Kim G, Richards MC, Smith AB, Strybos KM, Huang X, Staggers K, et al. Lack of association of A1C with postoperative complications in children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Clin Diabetes. 2024;42(1):65-73. 7. Dhatariya K, Levy N, Kilvert A, Watson B, Cousins D, Flanagan D, et al. NHS diabetes guideline for the perioperative management of the adult patient with diabetes. Diabet Med. 2012;29(4):420-33. 8. Ng SM, Corbett T, Doble E, Brooks A, Kar P. Managing the psychosocial impact of type 1 diabetes in young people. BMJ. 2022;377.
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| Case Example | Case Example |
|---|---|
| A 12-year-old with T1D on an MDI regimen has a total daily dose (TDD) of 50 units. They cannot recall their insulin sensitivity factor (ISF). Their current blood glucose level (BGL) is 16 mmol/L, and the target glucose level is 8 mmol/L. | |
| Calculation Steps: | Calculation Steps: |
| 1. Determine the ISF: o ISF = 100 / TDD o ISF = 100 / 50 o ISF = 2 (This means 1 unit of insulin will lower the BGL by 2 mmol/L) | |
| 2. Calculate the glucose difference: o Difference between current BGL and target BGL = 16 mmol/L - 8 mmol/L | |
| 3. Calculate the correction dose: | |
| 4. Correction dose = Difference in glucose / ISF | |
| 5. Correction dose = 8 mmol/L / 2 | |
| 6. Correction dose = 4 units | |
| 7. Correction dose = 8 mmol/L | |
| 8. Correction dose = 4 units |
| Case Example |
|---|
| A child weighs 21kg, and records a glucose level of 3.3mmol/L |
| Calculation Steps: For a child weighing 21 kg: 21 kg × 0.3 g/kg = 6.3 g of glucose needed. |
| Pedialyte contains 2.5 g of glucose per 100 ml. |
| To deliver 6.3 g of glucose, the child would need approximately 280 ml of Pedialyte (since 6.3 g / 2.5 g per 100 ml = 252 ml, rounding up to 280 ml for safety). |
| Date | Procedure type - MAJOR/MINOR | |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes type | ||
| Weight | Height | |
| HbA1c | Current | Previous |
| Insulin regimen (circle) | Insulin Pump | MDI BD |
| Pump regimen (circle) | LGS | PLGS HCL |
| CGM system | Other | Libre Dexcom |
| Other Meds | ||
| Insulin | ||
| Total Daily Dose | Dose and last time given: | |
| Long (type) | Breakfast | |
| Short (type) | Lunch | |
| Dinner | ||
| Snacks | ||
| Last time given: | ||
| ISF | CR |
引用 / 出处
2025 澳大利亚指南:儿童及青少年糖尿病围手术期管理. 2025.