Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a serious lifelong condition affecting many people in the UK. With the increasing prevalence of T1DM, it is inevitable that more patients will present for anaesthesia and surgery. This article will inform anaesthetic practitioners about the condition, the challenges involved with glycaemic control, complications such as hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia, and the importance of maintaining good glycaemic control. It will offer advice about what anaesthetic practitioners can do to help manage and care for their patients.
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