Endocrine System

There are a wide variety of endocrine complications that can occur post-operatively, regardless of the procedure. Patients undergoing surgery may have co-morbidities involving the endocrine systems that need managing post-operatively, however these will often require specialist input pre- and post-operatively.

However, common endocrine complications that occur can be dealt with by doctors on the surgical wards. Issues with potassium (hypokalaemia and hyperkalaemia) and sodium (hyponatraemia and hypernatraemia) are common occurrences and should be addressed appropriately. 

Hypoglycemia, whilst also common, can lead to significant morbidity if left untreated therefore the most important areas of its management (as covered in the article) should be covered by surgical doctors.