Current smoking is independently associated with a greater than 2-fold increased odds of hospital readmission after radical cystectomy.
Infectious complications account for almost half of the readmissions following radical cystectomy (RC), and the risk for these complications is linked to current smoking, according to a new study.
Source: Readmission Due to Infection After Bladder Surgery Linked to Smoking
This study pertains to patients undergoing a radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. It looked at data from their institution that is collected for quality purposes. We have seen similar trends in infections related to smoking at our facility. We have also seen poor diabetic control as a large factor in preventing postoperative complications including infections.
Patients and their physicians should keep this in mind if they are to have a surgical procedure. If smokers can quit prior to their procedure it will help them have a safer recovery and patients should try to have the best control of their sugars if they have diabetes.