Impact of smoking on structural failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
J Shoulder Elbow SurgMay 14, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchOrthopedic Surgery
Van Tam Nguyen, Yi-Jie Kuo, Lien-Chen Wu et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of smoking on structural failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in adults. Analyzing data from ten cohort studies involving 1,683 shoulders, the study found that smoking significantly increased the risk of imaging-confirmed structural failure, with a risk ratio of 1.53 (95% CI 1.13-2.08; P = .011).
Key findings
- Smoking was associated with a higher risk of structural failure (risk ratio 1.53; 95% CI 1.13-2.08; P = .011).
- No significant differences in visual analog scale pain scores or forward flexion between smokers and non-smokers.
- Smokers had slightly lower postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, though this reduction was likely clinically negligible.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between smoking and structural failure after rotator cuff repair is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. This evidence highlights the importance of addressing smoking habits in surgical planning and postoperative care.