Undergoing surgery can be a significant event, and patients often have questions about how various substances might affect their procedure and recovery. As cannabis use becomes more common and legally accessible, a frequent concern arises regarding its impact on surgical outcomes. Understanding the potential interactions between cannabis and the body, particularly in a medical setting, is important for patient safety. This information can help individuals prepare for surgery and communicate effectively with their healthcare team.
How Cannabis Affects Surgery
Cannabis can influence several bodily systems, complicating surgical procedures and anesthesia. Inhaled forms of cannabis, such as smoke or vapor, can irritate the airways and lungs, leading to increased mucus production, wheezing, and chronic bronchitis. These respiratory issues can make it more challenging to place a breathing tube during anesthesia and increase the risk of lung-related complications. Smoking cannabis can also cause swelling of the uvula, a condition that can interfere with breathing for 12 to 24 hours.
The cardiovascular system is also affected by cannabis, as it can alter heart rate and blood pressure. This is particularly concerning during surgery, where stable heart function and blood pressure are carefully monitored. There is a potential for increased risk of heart attack or stroke, especially within the first hour after cannabis use. Some studies suggest cannabis use may also cause irregular heartbeats.
Cannabis interacts with the body’s central nervous system, influencing how anesthetic medications work. Patients who use cannabis may require higher doses of anesthesia to achieve and maintain sedation, sometimes needing significantly more than non-users. This can make it more difficult for the anesthesiologist to control a patient’s breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure during the procedure. In some cases, chronic cannabis use has been linked to delayed awakening from anesthesia or an increased risk of awareness during surgery.
Some evidence suggests cannabis might affect blood clotting. Some research indicates that cannabis can influence platelet function, which are cells involved in blood clot formation, potentially altering the body’s ability to form clots. Conflicting findings exist regarding whether this effect increases or decreases bleeding risk.
When to Stop Cannabis Use Before Surgery
The timeframe to stop cannabis use before surgery depends on individual factors like frequency and consumption method. It is advisable to stop cannabis use as far in advance as possible. Most medical guidelines recommend stopping cannabis products at least 72 hours, or three days, before general anesthesia.
For chronic users or those who consume cannabis through inhalation, a longer cessation period, ideally one week or more, is often suggested. Edible cannabis products typically require an even longer period of abstinence, potentially a week or several weeks, because they are metabolized more slowly and can produce longer-lasting effects. This allows the body to clear cannabis compounds more thoroughly. These are general guidelines, and the definitive recommendation for stopping cannabis use should come directly from your surgeon or anesthesiologist.
Why Your Medical Team Needs to Know
Communicating cannabis use to your medical team is important for surgical safety. Disclosing this allows healthcare providers, especially the anesthesiologist, to develop a personalized anesthesia plan. This enables them to adjust medication dosages and anticipate potential complications.
Knowing about cannabis use helps the team manage interactions or side effects during and after surgery. This includes preparing for increased anesthesia requirements or cardiovascular issues. Medical information shared with your team is confidential. The primary goal of asking about cannabis use is to ensure your safety and optimize your surgical outcome, not to pass judgment.
Cannabis and Post-Surgery Recovery
Cannabis use can influence post-operative recovery. Regular cannabis users may experience more pain after surgery. This can lead to a greater need for pain medication, including opioids.
While cannabis is sometimes used for nausea, some research indicates regular use might increase post-operative nausea and vomiting. Continuing to smoke cannabis after surgery can hinder lung recovery and increase respiratory complications. Cannabis use has been associated with delayed wound healing, prolonging overall recovery time.