HSS Studies Challenge Preoperative Guidelines for GLP-1 Users
Event summary
- HSS presented two studies at the ASRA annual meeting on GLP-1 agonist usage in surgical patients.
- First study found no significant difference in full stomach incidence between GLP-1 users and non-users, despite longer fasting times.
- Second study showed GLP-1 use in orthopedic patients increased from 3.69% in 2021 to 12.84% in 2024.
- Semaglutide and tirzepatide accounted for 88% of GLP-1 use in 2024 among orthopedic patients.
The big picture
As GLP-1 agonists gain popularity for diabetes, obesity, and other conditions, their perioperative effects are becoming a critical focus. HSS's research highlights the need for evidence-based adjustments to current anesthesia guidelines. The rapid increase in GLP-1 use among orthopedic patients suggests this trend will only grow, requiring healthcare systems to adapt their preoperative protocols.
What we're watching
- Guideline Revisions
- Whether preoperative fasting guidelines will be updated for GLP-1 users based on these findings.
- Drug Safety
- The impact of continuing or pausing GLP-1 medications before surgery on patient outcomes.
- Market Trends
- The pace at which GLP-1 usage continues to grow among surgical patients and its implications for perioperative care.
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