What is the target blood glucose level immediately post-lung transplant?

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Last updated: February 19, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Target Blood Glucose Level Post-Lung Transplant

The target blood glucose level immediately post-lung transplant should be between 140–180 mg/dL [ 1 ].

  • This range is recommended for the majority of critically ill patients, including those post-lung transplant, as it balances the need to control hyperglycemia with the risk of hypoglycemia [ 1 ].
  • More stringent goals, such as 110–140 mg/dL, may be appropriate for selected patients, including critically ill postsurgical patients, as long as they can be achieved without significant hypoglycemia [ 1 ].
  • Insulin therapy should be initiated for the treatment of persistent hyperglycemia $180 mg/dL and targeted to the recommended glucose range [ 1 ].
  • Clinical judgment and ongoing assessment of clinical status should guide day-to-day decisions regarding insulin dosing [ 1 ].

From the Research

Target Blood Glucose Level Post-Lung Transplant

The target blood glucose level immediately post-lung transplant is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, some studies provide information on blood glucose management and targets in critically ill patients and post-transplant patients.

  • The study 2 compared two intensive insulin therapy protocols in critically ill patients and found that a glycemic target range of 110-140 mg/dL was more suitable than 140-180 mg/dL.
  • The study 3 used continuous glucose monitoring in hyperglycemia after lung transplantation, but did not specify a target blood glucose level.
  • The studies 4, 5, and 6 discussed the incidence and risk factors of post-transplant diabetes mellitus in lung transplant recipients, but did not provide information on target blood glucose levels.

Blood Glucose Management Post-Lung Transplant

  • The study 3 found that continuous glucose monitoring was feasible and offered advantages in detecting hyperglycemia and optimizing glucose management post-lung transplantation.
  • The study 2 found that intensive insulin therapy was useful in reducing the variability of blood glucose, but the optimal target range was not clearly defined for post-lung transplant patients.

Glycemic Targets in Critically Ill Patients

  • The study 2 found that a glycemic target range of 110-140 mg/dL was associated with less hypoglycemia and less glycemic variability compared to a range of 140-180 mg/dL in critically ill patients.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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