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[Information
Resources]
Post-Operative Instructions After
Back Surgery
Now that you are ready to leave the hospital your doctor has
some instructions for you to follow at home
The IncisionIf any of the following should develop,
call our office at (859) 277-6143.
- Increasing
redness at the incision since leaving the hospital.
- Separation of the
incision line.
- Large amounts of drainage.
You may
have sutures under the skin which will dissolve. You may have paper
strips. These can be removed after 5 days. If you have staples or
sutures on the surface approximately 5-15 days after surgery they
will be removed by one of the following professionals:
- Home health nurse in your
home.
- Your family doctor at his office.
- Your
physician or our physician assistant in our office.
A light gauze dressing over the incision is comfortable for most people, but
please remember:
- It must be kept clean and dry.
- It should be changed if dirty or wet. (Wash hands before changing
it.).
- Prevent clothing from rubbing or irritating the
incision.
- No soaking in the bathtub.
Medications Take medications given to you only
as prescribed by the doctor.
Prescription pain medication is
to make you more comfortable in the initial period after your
surgery, but cannot be continued after that time. As soon as possible
begin to decrease the amount of prescription medication taken. You may use
Tylenol for the less severe pain. Pain medication should be taken
only when needed for pain. Narcotic pain medication often causes
nausea, stomach upset, and constipation. For mild stomach upset or
"burning" you may need to take the medication with food or an over
the counter antacid like Mylanta. For constipation, drink plenty of
liquids such as fruit juice, take a stool softener such as
Pericolace (available at the pharmacy), try gentle laxatives such as
Dulcolax, and if necessary use a Fleets enema. If any of these
symptoms become severe or if you develop an allergic reaction, you
should STOP the medication.
Problems Many people continue to experience some pain
in their back or legs for some time after surgery.
However,
there are some problems which would indicate the need for an
immediate call to the doctor:
- Inability to move or feel in
one or both legs.
- Inability to control bowel or
bladder.
If you have a question or are concerned about your
condition you should call the office, (859) 277-6143.
Office Appointment You will have a follow up
appointment with your doctor four to six weeks after your
surgery. A scheduled time may be made for you by the hospital staff
or you may call the office at (859) 277-6143 for any scheduling
question.
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