Rheumatoid arthritis patients have specific implant considerations related to immune system modulation, frequent corticosteroid use, and chronic inflammation. Modern RA medications (methotrexate, biologics like Humira/Enbrel) significantly affect surgical recovery and infection risk. WeCare's protocol for RA patients addresses each medication category.
Medication Categories
Methotrexate — Immunosuppressant. Generally continued through implant surgery. No drug holiday needed for typical doses.
Biologics (Humira, Enbrel, Remicade, Rituxan) — Significantly suppress immune function. Often paused 1-2 weeks pre-surgery and resumed 1 week post-surgery. Coordination with rheumatologist required.
Corticosteroids (prednisone) — Long-term steroid users have suppressed adrenal function. Stress-dose steroid coverage needed for major surgery. We administer pre-operative hydrocortisone if you are on chronic prednisone above 7.5mg daily.
JAK inhibitors (Xeljanz, Olumiant) — Newer class. Generally continued through surgery with infection vigilance.
NSAIDs — Often used for pain. May be paused 5-7 days pre-surgery to reduce bleeding risk if your rheumatologist agrees.
Modified Surgical Protocol
For RA patients on immunosuppressive medication:
- Antibiotic prophylaxis extended (7-10 days vs standard 5-7)
- Sterile technique ultra-careful (longer scrub, fresh gloves, isolated field)
- Implant brand — Straumann SLActive® for accelerated early integration
- Healing time extended from 3 months to 4 months
- Follow-up frequency increased — weekly WhatsApp check-in for first month
- Long-term peri-implantitis screening every 4-6 months instead of every 12
What to Send Us
WhatsApp +90 551 086 83 68 with:
- Recent panoramic X-ray (OPG)
- RA medications list (especially biologics with infusion dates)
- Current corticosteroid dose and duration
- Last rheumatology visit summary
- Any active joint flare-ups
Within 24-48 hours we send a treatment plan with RA-specific protocol modifications and timing relative to your medication schedule.
