[Effect of cigarette smoking on skin perfusion of the hand].

BACKGROUND

Cigarette consumption leads to postoperative wound healing disturbances by impairing skin circulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen nonsmokers and 44 smokers were investigated and classified according to age (<40 and >40 years) and duration of cigarette consumption. Circulation at the tip of the middle finger was measured in both groups under standard conditions with laser Doppler imaging.

RESULTS

There was a reduction in skin blood circulation of 24% in smokers (young 39%, older 11%, P=0.001) and 30% in nonsmokers (young 35%, older 18%, P=0.019). With longer duration of cigarette consumption, the effect grew weaker (<10 years 25%, 11-30 years 18%, >30 years 15%). There was no correlation between the number of cigarettes consumed per day and impaired circulation.

CONCLUSION

Younger subjects react to cigarette consumption with a stronger reduction in circulation. In elective surgery, especially in young smokers we recommend a 6- to 8-week nicotine abstinence prior to surgical intervention.