Abstract
Background: Postoperative wound healing is a critical determinant of surgical outcomes. Hyperglycemia adversely affects leukocyte function, collagen formation, and angiogenesis, leading to delayed healing and increased risk of infection. Optimizing glycemic control before surgery may improve wound recovery and reduce complications.
Objective: To evaluate the impact of preoperative glycemic control on postoperative wound healing in elective surgical patients.
Study Design and Setting: This prospective observational study was conducted at Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, from January 2025 to June 2025.
Methodology: A total of 140 elective surgical patients aged 18–70 years were enrolled and categorized into two groups based on preoperative HbA1c: well-controlled (≤7%, n=70) and poorly controlled (>7%, n=70). Patients with immunocompromising conditions, chronic steroid use, active infection, or emergency surgery were excluded. Standardized perioperative care, surgical technique, and wound management protocols were applied. Wound healing was assessed on postoperative days 3, 7, and 14 using the Southampton Wound Assessment Scale. Data on demographics, comorbidities, type of surgery, and intraoperative factors were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0.
Results: Well-controlled patients demonstrated faster wound healing, with 92.9% achieving normal wounds by day 14 compared to 68.6% in poorly controlled patients. Mild erythema and discharge persisted more frequently in the poorly controlled group. Postoperative complications such as surgical site infection, wound dehiscence, and prolonged healing were more common in poorly controlled patients.
Conclusion: Preoperative glycemic control was associated with improved postoperative wound healing and reduced complication rates. Optimizing glycemia before elective surgery is essential for enhancing surgical outcomes.