The specific post-operative instructions will vary depending on the specifics of the procedure performed. There are, however, some common recommendations:
- Eat simply in the hours following surgery – anesthesia, pain and stress can all cause stomach upset after surgery. Additionally, drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drinks,
- Use ice packs or an ice machine (if you have one) to relieve pain at the surgical site. Particularly if you had a nerve block, be sure that ice is not in place for more than 20 minutes.
- Do not drive, drink alcohol, operate any machinery or sign any legal document for at least the first 24 hours after surgery, as the effects of the anesthesia may last for 24 hours.
- Take pain medication as directed, maximizing the use of non-narcotic medications such as ibuprofen and Tylenol (acetaminophen). Never take more than 3g of Tylenol within 24 hours.
- Follow post-operative restrictions as prescribed – these are important to both limit your pain and to protect the surgical treatment.
- If you have been given home exercises, try to start them within a few days of surgery.
- Be sure to attend your scheduled post-operative visit.
- If you have any questions, please contact Dr Gardner’s office. Remember that while convenient, MyChart is not appropriate for urgent questions, particular on nights and weekends.
If you have any of the following symptoms, please contact Dr Gardner’s office immediately and/or go to the Emergency Room:
- Fever >101°F
- Redness around the incision or increased drainage from the incision
- Swelling or pain of the calf/lower leg that does not decrease with elevation
- Sudden shortness of breath or racing heart or chest pain
- Numbness or tingling of the surgical limb even after the nerve block has worn off
