Your surgeon will give you specific postoperative instructions
depending on your type of surgery. These are general guidelines to
follow after.
Take pain-relieving and other medications as prescribed.
Pain-relieving medication should be taken with food. After the
first 48 hours of surgery, take the pain medication only when
needed.
Do not drink alcohol, drive a vehicle, operate any machinery, or
sign a legal document for the first 24 hours after the surgery as
the effects of the sedative and/or the anesthesia administered
during the surgery may last for the first 24 hours of the surgery.
Use ice packs to control swelling. However, make sure
that the ice bag does not leak into the dressing. Ice packs can be
used liberally for the first 48 hours and even later if required.
Follow the specific restriction of activity, as advised.
Remember that it is easier to prevent developing pain rather than
managing it once it has already developed. Rest for a few days
after the surgery and keep the operated extremity elevated, above
the level of your heart, to control swelling.
Keep the dressing clean and dry to promote wound healing.
If you had lower extremity surgery, use assistive devices
(walker/crutches) with walking for the first couple of weeks
following surgery to prevent the risk of falling. Your surgeon
will inform you of your weight-bearing status prior to or after
surgery. As your pain and coordination improves, you can wean from
assistive devices when weight bearing is allowable. Your therapist
may guide you with finding the right time to wean off assistive
devices.
For lower extremity surgery, avoid long periods of
sitting (without leg elevated) or long distance traveling for 2
weeks.
In some cases, it is appropriate to avoid flying for 4-6
weeks following surgery.
Avoid driving until your coordination has fully
recovered. Usually 6-8 weeks.
You may return to work when you are at a minimum no
longer taking opioid pain medications. But usually taking 1-2
weeks at a minimum is recommended. This decision also largely
depends on the specific surgery, nature of your job and its
functional requirements.
Often, physical therapy is initiated soon after the
surgery. Exercises in the first week are usually aimed at
regaining joint motion. Strengthening exercises are initiated
later. Regular exercises are critical for a successful outcome.
Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of non-alcoholic and
non-caffeinated drinks.
Schedule your follow-up appointment with your doctor as
advised.
Please consult your doctor immediately if you
experience any of the following symptoms:
Increased swelling that does not decrease with ice and
elevation.
Foul odor.
Fever greater than 101°F.
Coldness, numbness, or blanched white or bluish color of
the fingers or toes