Physiologic Responses to Surgery

Nutrition for Special Groups 3(3+0)

Lesson 41 : Surgery

Physiologic Responses to Surgery

  • Activation of the pituitary gland when nervous signals from the operative site reach the hypothalamus to initiate stress response.
  • Outpouring of ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone)
  • Increased ACTH stimulates adrenal cortex to release cortisol – 2-5 times normal level for 24 hrs after operation.
  • Cortisol mobilizes amino acids for wound healing etc.
  • Sympathetic nervous system stimulates adrenal medulla, epinephrine and helps in circulatory adjustment.
  • The excitement, pain, fear that accompany surgical procedures stimulate nor epinephrine stimulate glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.
  • Anesthesia and operative stress causes stimulation of aldosterone and ADH secretion which increased absorption and retention of water and sodium.
  • Changes in osmolarity
  • Weight gain due to water retention and delayed diuresis.
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Last modified: Thursday, 10 May 2012, 7:25 AM