Surgical Services

*Be sure to read your discharge papers for more detailed information!

NUTRITION:

• A well balanced diet is important for your body’s healing ability.
• A low fat diet is recommended (i.e. skim milk, chicken without the skin)
• Avoid greasy or fried fatty foods
• Avoid excess body weight.  Being overweight puts extra pressure on your circulatory system. 

ACTIVITY: 

• Avoid prolonged sitting due to bending at the knees can decrease circulation thus leading to possible swelling in the lower legs.
• Change positions frequently. Alternate between walking, lying down and sitting.
• When sitting, elevate your feet on a foot stool, or in a reclining chair.
• Create a balance between physical activity and periods of rest.
• Walk short distances daily gradually increasing your activity. Begin with 3-5 mins. intervals 4-5 times per day, each week increase your time.
• Avoid standing in one place for extended periods, this can cause swelling in the affected leg. Keep moving!
• May drive after 2 weeks, may experience increased pain in incisions. 

RULES TO LIVE BY: 

• No temperature extremes, no ice or heat on legs.
• No tight clothing, such as girdles, garters, knee high hose or socks with tight tops.
• Always dress warm in colder weather. This will help maintain a good blood flow to your legs and feet/toes.
• Quit smoking permanently! Nicotine constricts blood vessels.

WOUND CARE: 

• Wash incision sites gently daily with soap and water.
• A light gauze dressing may be applied to any oozing areas. 

EXPECTATIONS OF SURGERY: 

• Minimal to moderate pain controlled by oral pain medication.
• Minimal redness.
• Minimal or no drainage.
• To prevent swelling in your legs, it is important to follow the physical activity instructions (i.e. walking) 

CALL SURGEON IF: 

• Excessive bleeding or drainage occurs.
• Excessive swelling or redness at wound site.
• Temperature over 101 degrees.
• Paleness or increasing discoloration.
• Sores and blisters developing on feet and lower legs.
• Numbness or coldness in feet.
  

IF OFFICE IS CLOSED and an EMERGENCY arises, please call 911 or go to the Emergency Department.  

A MISA surgeon can be reached by calling the office answering service at (309) 677-6019