The effect of perioperative oral carbohydrate loading on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Preoperative oral carbohydrate loading consistently reduced postoperative thirst in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. It also was associated with a modest reduction in length of hospital stay; however, this effect was may not be consistently observed across all clinical settings. Although trends toward reduced pain, nausea and vomiting were observed, these did not reach statistical significance. The overall certainty of evidence is limited by moderate to substantial heterogeneity across studies. Despite limitations, the intervention appeared safe, adheres to ERAS standards, and necessitates further exploration through multicenter trials especially in high risk groups.