We regularly review our publications and other materials. The Surgical Guidelines have been updated to give greater clarity to healthcare professionals and patients alike. And also checking they reflect the latest medical guidance. Here are some frequently asked questions about this latest update.

1. You’ve updated the Surgical Guidelines again, why?

We asked for member feedback when we published the November 2021 version. While it was viewed as a huge step forward, there were a number of points that were raised. We’ve updated again to reflect these.

2. What’s changed this time?

We’ve made it clear which table should be used if someone has secondary or tertiary adrenal insufficiency.

We’ve streamlined the two tables to bring consistency to them.

It is still recommended to take an extra oral dose 60 mins before a minor procedure, so we’ve included this too.

3. What changed in November 2021?

Several pieces of clinical guidance were released in 2020 about steroid dosing for adrenal patients. These have been included in the Surgical Guidance, as well as expert advice provided by our Addison's Clinical Advisory Panel (CAP).

We now have two distinct sections to cover different categories – Adults with primary adrenal insufficiency (including CAH and Hypothalamo-pituitary disease) and adults receiving adrenosuppressive doses of steroids.

4. Who are these guidelines aimed at?

These are guidelines are aimed at healthcare professionals. As part of the review, we looked at the audience and purpose of this document. It is now written by medics for medics.

5 Where can I find information as a patient?

We have included a short section for patients that covers our main recommendations before any surgical procedure. We are creating an FAQ page to sit alongside the guidelines aimed at patients too.

6. Are the old guidelines wrong / dangerous?

No. The majority of the changes are to make the guidance clearer for healthcare professionals. It brings together the most up-to-date endocrine knowledge on cortisol replacement in the steroid-dependent patient.

7. Why has it changed?

We regularly review our publications and other materials. The surgical guidelines have been updated to give greater clarity to healthcare professionals and patients alike. And also checking they reflect the latest medical guidance.

We also listen to feedback from our members.

8. Who changed it? 

Members of the Clinical Panel, including Dr Simpson, Professor Wass and Professor Pearce, reviewed them and updated them in line with the latest medical guidance. 

9. How can I get a print copy?

UK based postal members have been sent one. You can find an easy-print surgical guidelines on our website.

We sell hospital packs - a folder of publications supporting patients if they have a visit to hospital. The Surgical guidelines are included in this.

Of course, if you know someone who can’t access or print off the Surgical Guidelines, please get in touch and we can post a physical copy to them.

10. Where is the dental bit now? Why is it separate?

We have been working with the BDA to create clearer dental guidelines. These will be published as soon as they are available. In the meantime, you can get this information from our dedicated dental guidelines page.

Have a different question or some feedback?

Give us your opinions on the updated Surgical Guidelines using our online feedback form (Opens in new window).