Effects of Marijuana Use in Patients with Orthopaedic Trauma

• DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.21.00137
• Publication Date: 2022-02-01T06:00:49Z
• Authors: Sean G. Sheppard; Pelle V. Wall; Benjamin Wheatley; William Kent
• Keywords: Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic; 03 medical and health sciences; Orthopedics; 0302 clinical medicine; Cannabinoids; Humans; Marijuana Use; 3. Good health

➢ The use of cannabis and cannabis-related products has increased dramatically in the last 2 decades. As states continue to legalize cannabis products, it is important for surgeons to understand the effects they may have on patients who have sustained orthopaedic trauma.➢ Cannabinoids have been shown to decrease the severity of certain symptoms related to traumatic brain injury as well as posttraumatic stress disorder.➢ Cannabinoids can modulate the body’s endocannabinoid system, which can play an important role in bone homeostasis. Activation of cannabinoid receptors has been shown to be bone-protective in adults.➢ Venous thromboembolism is a major concern for trauma patients. Cannabis use has been linked to overall increased rates of venous thromboembolism events.➢ Literature regarding human-based cannabis studies is sparse; however, the growing field is opening new opportunities for research of this topic.