Smoking is a well-known risk factor for many health conditions, and joint replacement surgery is no exception. In fact, smoking can greatly increase the risk of complications and prolong recovery time after joint replacement surgery. In this blog post, we will discuss the risks of smoking before joint replacement surgery and the benefits of quitting smoking before the procedure.
- Increased risk of complications: Smoking can greatly increase the risk of complications after joint replacement surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the surgical area, which can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Smokers are also more likely to develop blood clots and lung infections after surgery.
- Prolonged recovery time: Smoking can prolong recovery time after joint replacement surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes can reduce the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can slow down the healing process. Smokers may also have a more difficult time participating in physical therapy and rehabilitation, which can prolong recovery time.
- Reduced effectiveness of the surgery: Smoking can also reduce the effectiveness of the surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes can cause the cartilage in the joint to deteriorate more quickly, which can lead to the need for revision surgeries.
- Smoking cessation programs: Many hospitals and clinics offer smoking cessation programs to help patients quit smoking before joint replacement surgery. These programs can include counseling, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and medication.
- Improved outcomes: Quitting smoking before joint replacement surgery can greatly improve outcomes. Patients who quit smoking before surgery have a lower risk of complications, a shorter recovery time, and a better chance of the surgery being successful.
Smoking is a major risk factor for complications and prolonged recovery time after joint replacement surgery. In general, I recommended my patients quit smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery and for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Across the country, many surgeons and institutions will not operate on a patient who smokes for an elective joint replacement surgery. Some may also require nicotine blood tests to ensure patients have quit smoking.