Can I eat or drink anything before the surgery?
November 27, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Babette Köhler
Dear medical team,
My name is Katja Rademacher and I am about to undergo a planned surgery that will require anesthesia. I am unsure if I am allowed to eat or drink before the operation. I have been told that typically one should fast, but I am concerned about becoming dehydrated if I go too long without drinking.
I have heard that it is important to be fasting in order to reduce the risk of vomiting during anesthesia. However, I am also worried that an empty stomach could lead to feelings of weakness or low blood sugar.
Could you please advise me on whether I am allowed to drink something before the operation to stay sufficiently hydrated? Are there specific drinks I can consume without increasing the risk of complications? And how long before the operation should I refrain from eating and drinking?
I would greatly appreciate your expert advice to prepare myself as best as possible for the upcoming surgery. Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Katja Rademacher
Dear Katja Rademacher,
I understand your concerns and uncertainties regarding fasting before an operation, especially in regards to drinking fluids to stay adequately hydrated. It is indeed important to be fasting to minimize the risk of complications during anesthesia, especially the risk of aspiration (ingestion of stomach contents into the airways) and vomiting.
Usually, it is recommended that patients do not eat or drink anything from midnight before the operation to ensure that the stomach is empty. This means that you should generally not consume solid foods after 24:00 before the operation. However, small amounts of clear fluids such as water, tea, or clear broth are often allowed up to 2 hours before the operation. These fluids help keep the body hydrated without increasing the risk of complications.
It is important that you follow the instructions of your anesthesiologist or treating surgeon, as the exact guidelines may vary depending on the type of operation and your individual health characteristics. If you are unsure whether you can consume certain drinks, it is best to consult your medical team directly.
Regarding your concerns about low blood sugar levels or weakness due to fasting before the operation, you can ask your doctor for specific instructions on how to best avoid this. In some cases, it may be necessary for you to drink a special solution before the operation to balance fluid and nutrient levels.
I hope this information helps you and that you now feel better prepared for your upcoming operation. If you have any further questions or need additional support, do not hesitate to contact your medical team.
Best wishes for your operation and a speedy recovery!
Sincerely,
Babette Köhler, Specialist in Anesthesiology
