Impact of Smoking on Elective Hernia Repair Outcomes

The Cleveland Clinic evaluated the effect of active smoking on surgical outcomes for patients undergoing elective abdominal wall reconstruction. They found that while active smokers showed a slight increase in wound complications and higher pulmonary issues, these differences didn’t reach statistical significance. Importantly, there were no mesh infections in the smoking group during early follow-up. This data can guide shared decision-making for patients contemplating elective hernia repair while actively smoking. The study suggests that surgical delays for smokers may not be necessary.