Expert Advice   Print Version Q. Why do I need to quit smoking before having spine surgery? A. Healing tissues require a fresh and steady supply of blood. The blood supply carries needed oxygen, nutrients, blood cells, and other important healing agents to the area. It also provides a way for chemicals, enzymes, and other debris to be flushed away. Smoking introduces nicotine to the blood stream. Nicotine causes blood vessels to become narrower (vasoconstrict), slowing the flow of blood. Certain areas of the spine, especially in the lumbar area have a limited blood supply, even in normal circumstances. Smoking after surgery can further compromise this blood supply. This can slow the healing process and may even lead to other complications during your recovery. You can maximize your potential for healing by discontinuing smoking well before surgery and staying smoke-free until well after surgery. You may need to talk to your doctor about helpful ways to stop smoking. Print Version		Anatomy and Function of the Spine Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis Diagnostic Tests for Spine Problems Q. When can I play golf, ride a bike, or go hiking after spine surgery? A. It depends on the type and location of your surgery. A micro-discectomy… Clicking on any of the links will take you to a Web site to which this Privacy Policy does not apply. You are solely responsible for your interactions with such Web sites. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Home | Articles | Expert Advice | Medical Professionals | Topic Centers | Locator | Glossary | Search | Contact Us

© DePuy Spine, Inc. 2003-2009. All rights reserved. This site is owned and published by DePuy Spine, Inc., which is solely responsible for its contents. This site is intended for residents of the U.S. only. For more information see our Privacy Policy and Legal Notice.