Surgical Services

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

NUTRITION:

• Resume normal pre-operative diet as soon as possible.

MEDICATION:

• Resume any regular medications unless otherwise instructed.
• If needed, a prescription for pain will be provided.

ACTIVITY:

• Avoid stretching neck backwards, or tilting head back for about 2 weeks.
• Turn head from side to side frequently.
• Fatigue is normal after surgery. Take frequent rest periods if needed.
• Avoid driving until neck movements and range of motion are adequate for safety.
• The doctor will discuss return to work dates with you after your two weeks follow-up appointment.

WOUND CARE:

• Begin showering/bathing surgical area when instructed, usually 2 days after procedure.
• Wash with regular soap and water gently and follow the line of incision, drying well after.
• Leave the incision open to air as much as possible.
• Avoid irritation by necklines of clothing and necklaces.
• If not removed prior to discharge, sutures will be removed in the office.
• Call the office for a follow-up appointment, as instructed.
• After sutures and/or steristrips are removed, you may gently apply lotion to soften the incision and reduce scarring.

EXPECTATIONS OF SURGERY:

• Mild to moderate pain controlled by oral pain medication.
• Minimal swelling and redness.
• Little or no drainage unless a drain was used and then you may expect minimal to moderate clear to bloody discharge for 1-2 weeks.

CALL SURGEON IF:

• Excessive bleeding or drainage occurs.
• Excessive swelling or redness.
• Temperature over 101 degrees.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Unusual pain, nausea and/or vomiting.

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