HOME DISCHARGE ORDERS
Ram Mudiyam, MD
Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Wound Care
On the day you go home from the hospital, you will have 1/2 inch pieces of
tape (steri-strips) bridging your incisions. You may shower using an Aquaguard to cover
the incision and steri-strips during the shower. Remove Aquaguard after the shower.
Keep the incision site dry and clean. No soaking incisions in a bath.
Possible Postoperative Complications
Please call our office immediately if you
experience any of these symptoms:
Hoarseness, sore throat, or problems with swallowing
Numbness or weakness of the arms or hands.
Temperature greater than 101° F
Redness, drainage and/or heat at the site of your incision (inflammation)
Increased pain
Burning or stinging when urinating, or frequent urination
Activity
You must always wear your neck brace except for showering. DO NOT bend
your neck forward or backward. This is especially important when taking a shower,
shaving or washing your hair. Keep the time out of the brace for personal hygiene
minimal.
No driving a car for 3-4 weeks.
No lifting greater than 10 lbs. No overhead activities with your arms.
Walking is very important for healing and your rehabilitation. Initially you should
walk at least two to three times daily. Begin by walking one or two blocks. Then
slowly and gradually increase your distance as your tolerance for physical activity
increases.
You may resume sexual activity when you are comfortable. You should position
yourself on your side and keep you neck brace on.
“Log Roll” to the side first before sitting up to get out of bed.
Notify Physician For
Temperature greater than 100° F
Increased pain
Drainage or redness of the incision
Calf swelling or tenderness
Chest pain or shortness of breath
You will need your first post-operative appointment with Dr. Mudiyam in 7-10 days after being discharged from the hospital to remove the steri-strips. Please call (714) 979-8981 the day you are discharged from the hospital to schedule this appointment.
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