The effects of alcohol in orthopaedic patients

Alcohol misuse is common and increasing in the United Kingdom, and has a significant effect on patients with orthopaedic conditions both in the acute and elective setting. Identifying patients with alcohol-related disorders, and understanding the consequences are essential for their management. This article reviews the literature with regards to both diseases caused directly by alcohol and those associated with its consumption, and considers their impact on orthopaedic practice.