Alcohol Withdrawal After Surgery: Why Awareness Could Save Lives

When most people think about surgery risks, they picture complications such as infections, bleeding or blood clots. But there is another serious — and often overlooked — risk that can disrupt recovery and even threaten lives: alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). 

A 2025 study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons examined data from more than 3 million people who had major surgery between 2016 and 2019. The findings highlight a need for both awareness and action. 

What the Study Found 

Researchers discovered that: 

• About 0.5 percent of surgical patients — more than 16,000 people in the study — developed alcohol withdrawal during their hospital stay. 

• These patients faced a higher risk of serious complications, including: 

  • Respiratory failure — more than 2x as likely 

  • Sepsis — 61% higher risk of this dangerous, body-wide infection 

• Hospital stays were nearly twice as long — a median of 11 days compared to 6 days for other patients. 

• Hospital costs were more than $10,000 higher on average. 

• For those with the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal, delirium tremens, the risk of death increased by about 40%. 

Why This Matters 

Alcohol withdrawal is more than discomfort — it can be life-threatening. For people who drink regularly, suddenly stopping before or after surgery can cause seizures, confusion, and dangerous changes in heart rate or blood pressure. 

Because surgery often requires fasting or changes in medication, patients who drink heavily may experience withdrawal without realizing they are at risk. 

The Missed Opportunity: Screening 

One of the biggest takeaways from this research is the need for consistent, proactive screening before surgery. Many hospitals still lack a standardized process for identifying patients at risk for alcohol withdrawal. 

With better screening and early intervention, hospitals can: 

• Prevent complications 

• Shorten recovery time 

• Save lives 

What Patients and Families Can Do 

If you or someone you love is preparing for surgery and regularly drinks alcohol: 

1. Be open with your care team. This is about safety, not judgment. 

2. Ask about prevention plans. Hospitals can use medications and monitoring to lower the risk of withdrawal. 

3. Seek help before surgery. Tapering alcohol use under medical supervision can reduce risks. 

4. Follow through on recovery. Keep follow-up appointments and stick to discharge instructions. 

Moving Forward 

Alcohol withdrawal after surgery is a serious but preventable risk. This research makes it clear — honest conversations, proactive screening and access to support can protect patients and save lives. And when we talk openly about alcohol use and withdrawal without stigma, we make it easier for people to get the care they need.