PATIENT INFORMATION
Why do I need an HbA1c?
HbA1c gives an estimate of average blood glucose over the previous two to three months. It does not usually require fasting.
Why it may be requested
- In people with known diabetes, it can help the team understand recent glycaemic control and plan perioperative management.
- In some people without a diagnosis, it may be requested when diabetes is suspected, because undiagnosed diabetes can affect surgical planning and long-term health.
Why control matters
High blood glucose around surgery can be associated with problems such as wound infection and slower healing. Knowing your recent control helps the team plan glucose monitoring and medicine adjustments.
A result is not a pass or fail
HbA1c is not, by itself, a universal “pass/fail” test for surgery. The decision to proceed depends on the whole clinical situation, the urgency of surgery and whether delaying the operation to improve glucose control is likely to benefit you.
If your result is high, ask who will help you improve your glucose control, both before surgery and in the longer term.
An abnormal result needs interpretation in your clinical context. Do not decide whether surgery is safe, or change treatment, solely from information on this website.