Use of oral retinoids in the perioperative period by surgical specialty: a literature review.

This review examines the impact of oral retinoids, particularly isotretinoin, on incisional wound healing across surgical specialties. Commonly prescribed for dermatologic conditions, concerns persist regarding oral retinoids' potential adverse effects on wound healing, prompting the widespread practice of discontinuing these medications before surgery. We performed a PubMed search and analyzed research published regarding the use of oral retinoids in a variety of surgical subspecialties: dermatologic, plastic, ophthalmologic, orthopedic, ENT/otologic, and maxillofacial. Contrary to conventional practices, our review challenges the necessity of discontinuing oral retinoids before surgery in many instances based currently available research. Our literature review underscores the need for individualized risk-benefit assessment when deciding whether to hold retinoid therapy prior to surgical intervention as well as the need for more data surrounding systemic retinoids and wound healing interactions. While encouraging a reevaluation of current practices, we advocate for evidence-based decision-making in perioperative care across various surgical specialties in collaboration between dermatologists and surgeons.