The win saved the hassle of a replay - something neither Boro nor Wolves needed - but it leaves Gareth Southgate counting the cost.
Left-back Andrew Taylor limped off seven minutes in with a twisted ankle and Afonso Alves was substituted with 20 minutes to go and is doubtful for Wednesday's clash at Stamford Bridge, though loan signing Marlon King is ready to make his debut.
Perhaps Boro can be excused if things go pair-shaped in London in midweek, but the fixture on Saturday is critical.
Considering Emanuel Pogatetz, Jeremie Aliadiere, Robert Huth, Julio Arca and Josh Walker were all ruled out of the cup tie with injuries and Didier Digard was suspended, new fitness concerns were the last thing Southgate needs with a crucial six-pointer against Blackburn to come at the Riverside on Saturday.
Gary O'Neil is already out of that match after picking up a fifth booking of the season against Wolves.