Congratulations! You’re through surgery. Now it’s time to recover. Below is a list of instructions for care at home.
Incision:
Keep the incision clean and dry. You may shower but avoid direct water pressure to the dressing and do not submerge in water such as swimming or bathing. If the dressing becomes wet at all, pat dry with a towel.
Maintain your dressing for two weeks. Your stitches are under the skin and will dissolve over time. There is a layer of surgical glue over the incision which will slowly begin to peel off on its own. Do not try to peel it off yourself. If your dressing falls off before that time you can cover it with a small over-the-counter bandage. You can remove the dressing on your own at home at 2 weeks.
Activity:
We want you up and walking as much as you feel comfortable (around the house and even short walks outside the house)
Try to avoid sitting or standing in one position for a prolonged period of time as this can cause you to be sore. If you anticipate having to do this (e.g. a long car trip or standing in place for a prolonged period), try to change positions and stretch every 30 minutes.
Avoid any activities that involve increased pressure/strain to your back or abdomen.
Do not drive for at least 2 weeks after surgery. After 2 weeks, drive only when you are comfortable and pain-free at the wheel, you are able to check your blind spot, and you are off opioids, muscle relaxants and any other medicine that could impair you. Before getting back on the road, practice somewhere safe (e.g. an empty parking lot) to make sure you can drive safely.
Avoid tobacco products which can inhibit wound and bone healing.
Nutrition is key – eat well!
First 6 weeks:
No bending, lifting or twisting for 6 weeks. Do not lift anything over 10 to 15 pounds.
Do not submerge the incision in water (bath, pool, hot tub) for 6 weeks. Showering is OK.
Walking is your main exercise. Formal physical therapy is only needed for some patients, and we will tell you if you need it.
No NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for 3 months.
When to call us:
Fever over 101.5°F that lasts more than 8 hours despite Tylenol, or redness or any pus from the incision
Opening of the incision with significant drainage
Concern for blood clot in the leg (increased pain, swelling, warmth/redness in legs or chest pain/shortness of breath)
Any new or worsening neurologic changes (numbness, tingling, weakness, any change in balance, loss of bowel/bladder control)
New onset positional headaches, clear drainage, nausea/vomiting
Any other symptoms of concern
