
Post Op ACDF

Post Op in the Hospital
Recovery Room (PACU) (first few hours after surgery)
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Your exam and pain level are closely monitored
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Supplemental oxygen is normal during this stage
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Taking deep breaths will improve your lungs' recovery
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Compression stockings are used to prevent blood clots
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Urine (Foley) catheter generally not needed for ACDF
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Incision in the front of the neck will have absorbable sutures under the skin, with surgical glue (Dermabond) clear film on top of the skin.
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Soft neck collar optional for comfort (not required)
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Pain medicine and other Rx via I.V. (intravenous route)
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Swallowing difficulty and hoarseness is expected
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Mobilize out of bed to a chair as soon as feasible
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Gradually start meals as tolerated
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Visitation in the Recovery Room is very limited
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Surgery Floor bed (if required) (1-2 days)
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Most patients will be able to go home within 23 hrs
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Continue compression stockings while in bed
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Subcutaneous Heparin is started to prevent blood clots
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Foley catheter (if used) is removed the day after surgery
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Surgical drain is usually removed within 23 hrs
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Advance to regular diet as swallowing improves
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Ambulate in the hallways as much as tolerated
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May shower 24 hrs after surgery
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Antibiotics are taken for 24 hours after surgery or until the drain is removed
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Transition pain medicine and other Rx to oral route
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Pain medications cause constipation, which may require laxatives.

Recovery at Home
First 14 days after surgery:
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Neck pain, swallowing soreness, hoarseness, numbness and neck stiffness are expected
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Can shower starting evening of surgery
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Surgical glue will fall off in 2-3 weeks
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Swelling peaks around 3-4 days after surgery and then slowly gets better in 1-2 weeks, so your discomfort may worsen after surgery before slowly improving
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Limit exertion to less than 10 pounds of lifting
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Start walking at least 30 minutes every day
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Numbness and Weakness may persist
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Neurosurgery visit 10-14 days after surgery for a quick (5 minute) incision site check. No suture/staple removal required.
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Safe to drive when off of prescription pain meds for 24 hours
1 to 2 Months post op:
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Increase activities (lifting limit is 20 lbs)
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Post op pain/stiffness is still expected, but it should slowly decrease by the end of this time
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Numbness and weakness are likely to persist
3 Months post op:
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Neurosurgery visit 3 months after surgery
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Post Op X-rays prior to the 3 month office visit
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Pain and weakness should be resolving
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Numbness may take 3-6 months to recover
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May increase lifting and activities gradually back to baseline activities prior to surgery