Question

I have an underactive thyroid. Can this prevent a surgical site from healing?

Answer

Hypothyroidism causes cardiovascular abnormalities, and it is theoretically possible that a low cardiac output may affect healing, as the blood supply to the wound site is extremely important to the healing process. There is also likely to be some anaemia, which again theoretically may hinder wound healing. Overall, however, other factors may be more important, e.g. a general problem of circulation to the area, or a local one such as infection within the wound site.

Links

• Thyroid problems