Post-Operative Instructions Following Anterior Cervical Disk Surgery

Please read these instructions before entering the hospital. If you have any questions concerning your recovery, be certain to ask your doctor.

The Incision

There are no stitches on the outside of the incision that you can see. They are under the skin and will dissolve over time. They do not need to be removed. The surface of the incision is covered with several thin strips of clear tape. Leave these tape strips in place. Peel them off after seven (7) days, in the shower. If you wish to shower prior to the 7th day, cover the wound with plastic so the strips do not become wet and peel off prior to the appointed time. You may wash the wound and pat it dry. No dressing is required over the incision after the first one is removed. Do not touch the incision unless bathing, and make certain your hands are clean.

Activity

To return to your normal level, begin with a few days of rest, then gradually progress to walking and light household chores. No heavy lifting, pushing, pulling or sports until after your doctor sees you in the office. Generally, you will be instructed to make an appointment for a return visit in 3-6 weeks after your surgery.

Sleep on a pillow, which will maintain your neck in a neutral position.

Avoid activities that require your head to be in a bent forward position over a long period of time. For example: reading, sewing, writing, using a computer, etc. Instead, raise your work closer to eye level to avoid dropping your head forward.

You may begin driving when you can turn your head fully from side to side without significant pain or stiffness (in approximately 3-4 weeks). Start by driving short distances and when you feel your ability to drive safely has returned.

You may return to work only when released by your doctor. The amount of time you can expect to be off work depends upon your condition before surgery, your progress after surgery, and the type of work you do.

Medications

Any medications you normally take for other health problems (such as high blood pressure, lung disease, diabetes, etc.) should be continued as usual. If your doctor gives you a prescription for medications to help relieve moderate to severe pain, take it only as instructed. Be certain that you read the label on the bottle for instructions on how often and how many tablets you may take. It is possible you will have only mild pain and will not need any strong pain medicine.

Prescription pain relievers often cause drowsiness and/or dizziness. You should not drive or perform any activity requiring you to be alert and have clear judgment while taking this medication.

All pain medications can cause constipation. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and fruit juices and if necessary use a laxative or stool softener. Both of these are available at any drug store without a prescription. The pharmacist will recommend a particular brand if you need help.

As soon as your level of pain decreases, try to alternate and then replace the prescription pain medication with an over-the-counter pain reliever. Aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil work very well.

Call the office at (606) 277-6143 if any of the following occurs:

Your medication does not decrease your level of pain. (DO NOT increase the amount unless the doctor or the physician's assistant approves).
Intolerable side effects such as nausea, vomiting, severe dizziness or indigestion prevents you from taking the medication.
Signs of a possible allergic reaction occurs such as: rash, itching, or swelling of the face, eyes, mouth or tongue. STOP taking the medicine immediately.

When to call the Doctor

If you see signs of infection at the incision, report them to the office. These include: progressive redness and/or swelling of the incision, continuing or worsening drainage, and a fever greater than 100'F for over 24 hours that is not associated with an illness (i.e., cold, flu, etc.).
Immediately after surgery you may feel like there is a small lump in your throat, some discomfort when swallowing, and a slight change in voice quality. These sensations are due to mild swelling and should quickly improve. If you develop serious difficulty swallowing or speaking, call our office.
If you have any questions or problems not covered by these instructions, call our office.

Follow-up Appointments

You will have a follow-up appointment with your doctor in 3-6 weeks after your surgery. If this is not scheduled for you when you are discharged from the hospital, call the office or clinic and a time will be scheduled for you.