MyLeukemiaTeam

Great question to be thinking ahead about! Timing surgery after stopping Venetoclax (Venclexta) is really important, and this is something your oncologist and orthopedic surgeon need to coordinate on together.

Here are some key considerations:

- Venetoclax can cause low blood cell counts, which affects healing and infection Show Full Answer

Great question to be thinking ahead about! Timing surgery after stopping Venetoclax (Venclexta) is really important, and this is something your oncologist and orthopedic surgeon need to coordinate on together.

Here are some key considerations:

- Venetoclax can cause low blood cell counts, which affects healing and infection risk after surgery
- Your blood counts need to be at safe levels before any major surgery like a shoulder replacement
- Your oncologist will likely want to monitor your counts for several weeks after stopping the medication before clearing you for surgery

Generally speaking, surgeons and oncologists often wait until blood counts have recovered and stabilized — this can take weeks to a few months after stopping treatment, but it varies person to person.

The best path forward is to:

1. Talk to your oncologist about your stopping date and surgical plans
2. Have your orthopedic surgeon communicate directly with your oncologist
3. Get blood work done after stopping to confirm your counts are at a safe level for surgery

Don't schedule the surgery without getting that green light from both doctors first — your safety depends on that coordination!

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Treatments

Venclexta