With increasing legalization for both medical and recreational uses of marijuana in the country, cannabis use disorder (CUD) has trended upwards. Marijuana has multisystem physiological effects and has been shown to result in worse spine surgical outcomes and increased risk of complications.

Cannabis Use Disorder

CUD is when someone is unable to stop using marijuana despite its infliction of health and social problems. Frequent use and use starting in adolescence puts individuals at more of a risk of developing CUD. The active ingredient in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has multisystem effects on respiratory, vasoconstrictive, inflammatory, and other physiological processes that can affect surgical outcomes.

Effects on Spine Outcomes

Recent research has shown a higher incidence of postoperative complications in spine surgery in patients with CUD. These complications may include neurological complications, sepsis, wound infection, and myocardial infarction. This reinforces the need for a multilevel approach for patient care, as other seemingly unrelated conditions may have significant effects on surgical outcomes. Understanding these challenges is vital for patient treatment.

Conclusion

The rising prevalence of cannabis use, coupled with the potential for cannabis use disorder, underscores the importance of comprehensive patient assessment and management in medical practice. Appropriate interventions must be taken to properly address their needs effectively. Furthermore, the relevance and impact of cannabis use on surgical outcomes highlights the need for increased public awareness on the effects of this drug.

Call to Action

Join us at SCOLI as we navigate through changing legal and social contexts in order to spread awareness about the effects of cannabis use disorder on spine patient outcomes. Spreading awareness could spark change in prospective patient behavior and improve future outcomes as well as enhance public health.