Does smoking cessation affect treatment outcomes for tendon repair or fracture surgery?

Doctor’s answer

Yes. Smoking can reduce blood supply to healing tissues, increasing risks of wound problems, infection, and poor bone and tendon healing. Smoking cessation is associated with better orthopedic surgical outcomes. Patients preparing for surgery or undergoing rehabilitation should work with their medical team to develop a smoking cessation plan.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.