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Post-Operative Instructions

  • Initial follow-up appointments are generally scheduled at two weeks and six weeks postoperatively.
  • If you have sutures or staples that are visible over the skin, you should schedule to be seen for an in-person visit at approximately the 2.5-3 week mark

If a specimen was sent for pathology (cell testing), you will receive a call from the office once your pathology results are in. Otherwise, pathology results will be reviewed at your first post-operative visit.

Your incision and surgical site may be wrapped in an ace dressing to promote decreased swelling of the surgical site. We recommend using the ace wrap until the swelling has subsided (around two weeks) although the dressing should still be changed daily while any seepage is present. The ace/dressing can be removed for showers and re-applied with gentle compression.

  • Your post-op pain medication has been sent into your pharmacy on file. You should have 1 medication called in (an analgesic, typically tramadol or hydrocodone).
  • As you begin to feel better, you should reduce the amount and frequency of your pain medication. Here are some guidelines:
    • Take your pain medication about 30 minutes before you know you are going to increase your activity.
    • Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking prescription pain medications. ○ As your pain decreases, you may take over the counter Acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead of the prescription pain medication.
    • Do not drive while taking any narcotic pain medications.
    • Avoid taking pain medication on an empty stomach.
    • You should resume the medications you were taking prior to surgery once you get home, unless otherwise instructed. If you have any questions regarding these medications, please check with the nurse before discharge or contact your physician.

  • Please keep the incision covered with the operative dressing for the first three days, then with simple dry gauze and paper tape thereafter. The wound may be left open to air and without a dressing as soon as there is no seepage or drainage for 1-2 days in a row.
  • Please be aware as part of our incision closure, we use skin glue over the incision (unless you have visible sutures in place). Please refrain from picking off the glue as it can impair wound healing. The glue will start to peel off in 2-3 weeks after surgery.
  • You can expect to feel some discomfort at your incision site for the first couple of weeks.

  • You may shower immediately with your sealed dressing in place for the first 3 days after surgery. After 3 days, the dressing may be removed and the wound may get wet with gentle soap and water in the shower. Thereafter, gently pat the incision dry and replace the dry gauze dressing. Avoid rubbing or traumatizing the incision.
  • Do not submerge your incisions under water (such as bath tub, hot tub or pool) until 6 weeks out from surgery or when the wound is completely sealed. Do not use creams or ointments on the incision until it is completely sealed, typically 4-6 weeks. DO use sunblock or cover the incision for the first 6-12 months if you plan to be in a very sunny environment.

  • You can sleep in any position that is comfortable
  • You are encouraged to stand and walk the same day of surgery
  • During the first few weeks, you can increase your activity as tolerated. Avoid any activity that would put excess strain/tension on the incision site.
  • Avoid lifting more than 8-10 lbs (1 gallon of milk). You may bend and twist gently, but avoid extremes of motion, strenuous activity, or any motion which elicits pain
  • You may need help with daily activities (e.g. dressing, bathing) but most patients are able to care for themselves right away.
  • Depending on the size and location of the surgery, we will likely recommend performing some post-operative physical therapy, which we will usually start around the 6 week mark.

Several factors can contribute to constipation after surgery. Drink plenty of fluids and make sure your diet includes fruits, vegetables, and other items high in fiber. If you do not have a bowel movement after several days you may try over the counter laxatives. If constipation continues, please contact our office.

  • New or increasing pain, numbness, or weakness in your legs
  • Swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding from your incision
  • Temperature greater than 101.0F
  • Any drainage from the incision, especially if it is purulent
  • If the skin edges of your incision start to come apart
  • Severe headache, especially if associated with nausea or vomiting
  • Trouble controlling your bowel or bladder that you did not have before surgery
  • Leg swelling, redness, tenderness, or increased warmth
  • Sudden onset of anything that does not seem right

  • Sudden difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Worsening neurologic symptoms
  • Uncontrollable pain
  • Any other concerning issue that has not or cannot be addressed by Dr. Colman or his team

Review and adhere to the additional instructions you may have received from Dr. Colman. There may be procedure-specific instructions on permissible daily and physical activities. Finally, resume a healthy diet, monitor your weight, and avoid nicotine-containing products and second hand smoke.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call our office.

  • Janina Locascio, Physician Assistant
  • Alexis James, Registered Nurse
  • Jenna Niemi, Administrative Assistant
At a Glance

Dr. Matthew Colman

  • Internationally recognized expertise and thought leadership for a diverse range of spinal problems
  • Patient-specific and humanistic approach which uses the latest technology and techniques
  • Team centered approach prioritizes availability, communication, and support
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