| Journal | Cureus |
| Study Type | Cohort |
| Population | Human participants |
Orthopaedic surgeons routinely encounter cannabis-using patients, yet clinical guidance on perioperative management remains limited. This comprehensive review addresses critical knowledge gaps around cannabis effects on bone healing and postoperative outcomes that directly impact surgical decision-making.
This narrative review synthesized mechanistic, preclinical, and clinical evidence on cannabis effects in orthopaedic surgery through systematic literature analysis of over 100 studies. The endocannabinoid system demonstrably influences osteoblast and osteoclast function, with preclinical data suggesting smoked cannabis may impair fracture healing through multiple pathways. Clinical evidence remains mixed regarding opioid-sparing effects and postoperative complications, with significant methodological limitations across existing studies. The review highlights substantial gaps between widespread clinical cannabis use and evidence-based perioperative guidance.
“This review confirms what many of us suspect clinically—cannabis interactions with bone healing are biologically plausible but clinically understudied. The mechanistic data gives me pause about high-dose THC exposure perioperatively, though the clinical evidence remains too sparse for definitive recommendations.”
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Table of Contents
- FAQ
- Does cannabis use affect bone fracture healing in orthopedic patients?
- Should I stop using cannabis before orthopedic surgery?
- Will cannabis use affect my pain medication requirements after surgery?
- Can cannabis help with recovery after orthopedic procedures?
- Is it safe to use cannabis while taking post-surgical medications?
FAQ
Does cannabis use affect bone fracture healing in orthopedic patients?
Experimental studies show that the endocannabinoid system influences both osteoclast and osteoblast function, which are critical for bone healing. Smoked cannabis may potentially interfere with normal bone remodeling processes, though clinical evidence remains limited and requires further investigation.
Should I stop using cannabis before orthopedic surgery?
Given the potential effects on bone healing and interactions with perioperative care, patients should discuss cannabis use openly with their orthopedic surgeon. The decision to discontinue use should be individualized based on the type of procedure, healing requirements, and patient factors.
Will cannabis use affect my pain medication requirements after surgery?
Cannabis may influence opioid requirements during the perioperative period, potentially altering pain management protocols. Patients who use cannabis should inform their surgical team to ensure appropriate pain control strategies are implemented.
Can cannabis help with recovery after orthopedic procedures?
While patients commonly use cannabis for musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbances, and anxiety, its effects on clinical outcomes in orthopedic surgery remain uncertain. The potential benefits must be weighed against possible interference with bone healing and other perioperative complications.
Is it safe to use cannabis while taking post-surgical medications?
Cannabis can interact with various perioperative medications and may affect postoperative complications. Patients should discuss all cannabis use with their healthcare providers to avoid potential drug interactions and ensure safe recovery.