DON’T SMOKE BEFORE SURGERY
Most physcians are telling their patients to stop smoking prior to undergoing elective surgical procedures. Here are a few reasons why this is important.
1. Smoking may be the single most important risk factor for developing post-surgical complications.
These complications range from problems with lung function, wound infections, wound
healing and even cardiovascular problems.
2. Research has shown that patients who quit smoking 4 weeks prior to surgery
have a decreased risk of complications. Those who quit 10 weeks or more have
the same risks as those who never smoked.
3. The risk of death within 30 days of a variety of surgical procedures is nearly 40% higher in smokers.
The above facts should motivate you to quit smoking before undergoing elective surgical procedures and for overall good health and well-being.
