Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and may aid in weight loss efforts. The surgical management of patients taking GLP-1 agonists differs from others due to the slowed gastric emptying effects of GLP-1 medications. Patients taking these medications may have a higher risk of pulmonary aspiration during hand surgery than other patients, which affects their presurgical management. This article reviews GLP-1 agonists and their role in diabetes and weight loss, as well as current recommendations for surgical management of patients taking GLP-1 agonists.
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