Question
Does Remicade retard wound healing. Should Remicade be discontinued prior to elective open heart surgery??
Answer
Remicade should not cause problems with wound healing. The concern with Remicade and surgery is the possiblity that Remicade might increase the risk of perioperative infections. Although there are only a few studies addressing the topic, and the results are conflicting, most rheumatologists would recommend that you hold Remicade prior to surgery if possible. If the timing of the surgery is elective, I would schedule surgery 6 to 8 weeks after the last dose of Remicade.
