From the Journals

Is Smoking a Surgical Risk Multiplier?

A study of nearly 700 patients found that smokers undergoing surgery for esophageal cancer experienced significantly more complications, including higher rates of pneumonia and respiratory distress, than nonsmokers—though smoking did not independently impact long-term survival.

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A study on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients who underwent surgery revealed higher rates of major postoperative complications, particularly pulmonary issues, among smokers compared to nonsmokers. Smokers had a higher incidence of pulmonary complications, including pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome, with active smokers facing a significantly higher 30-day mortality rate. However, smoking did not independently impact long-term outcomes when other clinical factors were considered.

Original Source(s)

Is Smoking a Surgical Risk Multiplier?

A study of nearly 700 patients found that smokers undergoing surgery for esophageal cancer experienced significantly more complications, including higher rates of pneumonia and respiratory distress, than nonsmokers—though smoking did not independently impact long-term survival.

  • by Stanley Gajete

  • June 23, 2025

  • 3 min

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