Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Raises Surgery Risks

A recent study based in Ohio highlights the need for patients prepping for surgery to undergo detox to address the oft-overlooked issue of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Surgery is tough on the body, but for patients who drink heavily, the risks go beyond those typically expected from the operation itself. 

Early screening to identify risk factors for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can make the difference between a smooth recovery and a medical emergency.

Identifying Those at Risk for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

Under Dr. Timothy Pawlik, the study analyzed three million surgical patients, with 16,504 developing AWS and 6,591 progressing to delirium tremens that can themselves require detox treatment. The impact of AWL on three patient groups stood out. 

Considering the concern about teens and underage drinking, it’s easy to assume younger patients are more at risk to AWS, but this study revealed men in their early 60s as the most vulnerable population. 

Patients using Medicaid or self pay options were also at high risk, and proposed cuts in public health funds could widen the care gap for people of color. 

Those who had surgery on weekends or in urgent situations were more likely to face complications. Timing and urgency appear to play a key role in these outcomes.

Complications and Costs Add Up

Patients who develop alcohol withdrawal syndrome faced a 37% higher risk of postoperative complications, including respiratory failure and sepsis. Patients who progressed to delirium tremens had a 40% higher chance of death.

As if patient complications aren’t catastrophic enough, the financial impact is sobering. Hospital stays for patients diagnosed with alcohol withdrawal syndrome or delirium tremens averaged 11 days versus 6 for other patients. Costs increased by more than $10,000 per patient to total over $165 million in additional hospital expenses. 

Early Screening for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Saves Lives

Many patients do not disclose their drinking habits, leaving doctors unaware of the potential complications associated with alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Withdrawal symptoms like electrolyte imbalance, rapid heartbeat and agitation can appear quickly. But since these symptoms can be associated with other medical issues, doctors may treat everything but alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Screening a patient for alcohol use before surgery gives medical teams a chance to treat withdrawal via detox before the patient is in crisis. Early screening also allows doctors to postpone elective surgeries. The key to honest disclosure is to create a nonjudgmental environment where alcohol is seen as a disease rather than a moral failure. 

Screening tools like AUDIT-C that consists of a simple three question self-assessment and a 10-point eval called CTWA-AR help identify at risk patients. Including family members in the process can improve accuracy and give doctors a clearer picture of their patients’ alcohol use. 

Proactive Care Protects Patients and Hospitals

The study underscores that screening and managing alcohol withdrawal syndrome is more than a medical necessity. It also protects hospital resources and lowers costs. Standardized perioperative care for alcohol use is a critical step to keep surgical patients out of danger.

Another proactive step is to talk about substance use disorder treatment when discussing the results of your screening.

Call 800-996-6135(Sponsored) or search listings on Detox.com for high-quality drug and alcohol detox programs in your area, particularly those that specialize in medical detox and treating older adults.