American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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How long before surgery should patients ideally stop smoking?

4 weeks
6 weeks
8 weeks
10 weeks

The correct answer is: 8 weeks

Patients should ideally stop smoking at least 8 weeks before surgery to optimize their postoperative outcomes. Smoking is known to have detrimental effects on wound healing and respiratory function. The physiological impacts of smoking can increase the risk of complications such as surgical site infections, delayed wound healing, and pulmonary complications, including increased rates of pneumonia and respiratory failure. By abstaining from smoking for a period of 8 weeks, patients can significantly improve their lung function and overall health status. This cessation period allows for various beneficial physiological changes to occur, such as improved oxygenation, reduced carbon monoxide levels, and enhanced immune function, all of which contribute to better surgical outcomes. The duration specified aligns with many clinical guidelines that emphasize the importance of smoking cessation well in advance of surgical procedures to mitigate risks and promote a safer surgical experience. While reducing smoking habits significantly, the longer cessation period truly allows for the body to recover from the toxic effects of smoking more comprehensively.