New Research Finds Out That Smokers Undergoing Hip Replacement Surgery Take Longer To Heal

In a recent study, researchers surveyed patients who were made to undergo total hip replacement surgery and found out that in comparison to non-smokers, current smokers took longer time to heal. The researchers discovered that when contrasted with non-smokers, existing smokers had elevated rates of slackened hip joints, pain and infection.  The post surgery complications faced by the smokers had to be rectified with the help of a second surgery.

The researchers began the study by following 110 smokers and twice non-smokers who had undergone total hip replacement surgery within the period 2007-2009. All patients were aged in between 35- 84 years and the researchers followed them for 2-6 years after they had undergone hip replacement surgery.

During the study, the researchers thoroughly examined as to how each and every patient rated pain, mobility, healing and function on the Harris Hip Score scale. The researchers also observed the rates of x-rays and infection shown by the smokers. It is noteworthy that the hip replacement surgery had to be repeated in 1 percent non-smokers and 8 percent smokers.

 

However, as the study came to a close, the authors concluded that the usage of nicotine and tobacco is responsible for restricting the flow of good blood. According to the study authors, it can further prolong the time required to heal from total hip replacement surgery.

 

He study was introduced at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). The meeting was held in Chicago, IL, on 19^th-23 rd March 2013.

Source: dailyrx.com, Date: 25^th March 2013