Diabetics and Aortic Valve Replacement

Doctors studying diabetics and aortic valve replacement surgery have determined that the risks for complications following the procedure are higher for people with diabetes. Aortic valve replacement may result in an infection that might interfere with a diabetic's blood sugar control. It is important for diabetics who have had aortic valve replacement surgery to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments and communicate with their healthcare team to minimize any potential problems.

 

Diabetics and Aortic Valve Replacement: Complications

If you are a diabetic, your risks for complications following aortic valve replacement surgery are higher.
 
Although still uncommon, it is more likely for you to have infections or a delayed healing process.
For these reasons, it is important for you to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments and return sooner if any of the previously mentioned symptoms develop. Infections are also a major concern for this procedure, and your doctor will treat any early suspected infections more aggressively with the knowledge that you are diabetic.
 
Because of the risks involved with aortic valve replacement, it is essential for you to communicate with your team throughout the procedure so they can minimize any possible problems. Your team is trained to observe, evaluate, and respond to any unusual situations that arise.
 

Diabetics and Aortic Valve Replacement: Leaving the Hospital

As a diabetic, you probably know a lot about the signs and symptoms that go along with abnormal blood sugar levels.
 
These signs and symptoms may include:
 
  • Weakness
  • Difficulty with your vision
  • Shortness of breath
  • Anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Feeling slow or tired
  • Not getting better from a cold or flu
  • Having infections that don't go away or don't get better
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Needing to go to the bathroom a lot
  • Feeling hungry all of the time.
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After your aortic valve replacement, these symptoms may indicate a problem. For example, an infection at the procedure site can make blood sugar control difficult and may require IV antibiotics to treat the infection. To help identify what is causing the symptoms, you may be asked to have more frequent blood sugar checks. It is important to report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible so that the appropriate treatment can be started if necessary.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD