The Influence of Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate Administration on the Perioperative Period in Children and Adolescents After Orthopedic Procedures—A Pilot Study

Background: Preoperative fasting is one of the most difficult stages of hospitalization for children and their caregivers. The popularization of preoperative oral polycarbohydrate preparations is an important element influencing the comfort of hospitalized children. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of carbohydrate administration on perioperative blood glucose (PBG), the occurrence of complications in the pre- and postoperative periods, and satisfaction in children and adolescents. Material and methods The study was a comparative-observational one, and the following research methods were used: an author’s diagnostic questionnaire, observation, and analysis of medical documentation. The research group consisted of 50 patients from the Pediatric Orthopedic Department who received an oral polycarbohydrate solution up to 2 h before anesthesia. The control group consisted of 50 patients who fasted for more than 6 h before anesthesia. The study was conducted between February and May 2024. Results: The patients were assessed using a measurement of venous blood glucose taken immediately before the administration of premedication. Parents completed a questionnaire regarding their child’s perioperative period. Conclusions: The glucose level in patients who received a polycarbohydrate preparation is higher than in children who did not. The administration of polycarbohydrate preparations influences the feeling of thirst and hunger in the postoperative period in children and adolescents. Oral administration of a polycarbohydrate preparation up to 2 h before anesthesia does not cause regurgitation in children and adolescents. Patients who received an oral polycarbohydrate preparation tolerated the waiting period before anesthesia better. Preoperative fasting is, apart from the insertion of venous access, the most stressful situation for children and adolescents during hospitalization. The supply of oral polycarbohydrate preparations has a positive effect on pediatric patients in the perioperative period.