How Long Should I Abstain from THC Topical Treatments Before Surgery?

Understanding the guidelines for abstaining from THC topical treatments before surgery is crucial to ensure both your safety and the smooth running of the surgical procedure. As a seasoned anesthesiologist with over 37 years of experience in Kalifornia, I can share valuable insights based on the experiences of thousands of patients, both young and old, who have used THC products.

Understanding the Impact of Long-term THC Use

Regular users of THC products may face several challenges when preparing for surgery, particularly with respect to anesthesia and recovery. Long-term use can lead to damaged lungs, which may complicate the need for additional anesthesia medications. While many patients with a history of smoking THC may not require extra anesthetic agents, it is generally advisable for young adults to quit THC use to prevent potential complications.

Smoking THC heavily over a long period can be particularly detrimental, especially for teenagers. THC can significantly demotivate young people, potentially leading to a less active and engaging recovery process. It's important to avoid THC use as much as possible, especially in the days leading up to surgery.

Testing Positive for Marijuana for Prolonged Periods

A regular THC user may test positive for the drug for up to 100 days. This duration highlights the importance of abstaining from THC use well in advance of any surgical procedure. Other substances, such as anticoagulants, are typically withheld for 10 days before surgery. Anyone who uses any form of smoking regularly, be it THC or nicotine, is at risk of infection, nonhealing wounds, and post-operative complications. In some cases, surgeries can be canceled if any nicotine is detected.

Best Practices for Pre-Surgical Preparation

The general recommendation is to abstain from smoking anything, including THC products, for at least 2 weeks or longer. This includes not smoking anything for at least 12 hours before surgery to ensure that your system has cleared the substance. The earlier you stop using THC, the better, as it minimizes the risk of complications.

During surgery preparation, you should follow strict guidelines to ensure that your body is in the best possible condition. This includes fasting from food and anything else that could be ingested through the mouth. Your anesthesiologist will be strict about this, and any deviation can lead to complications. I have seen cases where patients who did not follow the fasting guidelines had to have endotracheal tubes reinserted in the recovery room, as their systems were not prepared adequately.

Consulting Your Medical Professionals

When preparing for surgery, it is vital to disclose all your medical history and current medications to your medical team, including THC topical treatments. Even if you have not used THC in a while, you should still inform your anesthesiologist of your usage patterns. The strength and frequency of THC use are key factors in determining whether and how long you need to abstain.

While it's generally recommended to abstain for at least 2 weeks or longer, the exact timeline can vary depending on the type of surgery and the specific factors at play. It's best to consult your surgeon or anesthesiologist to get personalized advice. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your individual situation.

Ultimately, it's important to follow the advice of your medical professional. Avoid taking any unsolicited advice from online forums, as even those with medical degrees may not have the specific insights needed for your unique case. Be proactive in communicating with your medical team to ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your surgery.