Post-Op Neck Surgery:
Post-Operative Instructions

The following instructions are general by design. Individual recommendations will be given at discharge.


Cervical Spine Surgery:

ACTIVITY

  • Do not bend, lift, or twist.
  • Listen to your body. If it hurts, don't do it.
  • Walk daily. Walking increases blood flow and decreases muscle tightness. Walk up to one mile per day as tolerated.
  • Limit your activity level for the immediate post-operative period. Provide your body an environment to heal.
  • Resume your normal activity gradually.
  • Do not lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk (5-10 lbs.)
  • Avoid riding in cars; this activity can increase swelling, muscle spasms and pain.
  • Avoid travel.
  • Avoid submersion in water (pool, spa, bath tub) for the first two weeks or until your incision is completely healed. You may take a shower, keeping your incision covered and dry.
  • If you have any specific questions, please contact the Center for Spine Care team.

BRACING

Wear your cervical collar at all times. You may only remove it when showering or when instructed to do so by your surgical team. You may loosen your collar if your head and neck are supported and are in a safe environment. Expect to wear your collar for up to six weeks.

SORE THROAT/DIFFICULTY SWALLOWING

It is common to have a sore throat after neck surgery. Try using Chloraseptic® spray as needed to help soothe your throat. You may also benefit from drinking icy-cold beverages. Most throat soreness from surgery will resolve with in days of surgery. Difficulty with swallowing may take a couple of weeks to resolve. If you have any specific questions, please contact the Center for Spine Care team.

NUTRITION/ DIET

Advance your diet slowly after surgery. You will receive clear liquids until you are passing rectal gas. Passing rectal gas is the first clue that your bowel has been "turned on". You do not want to put anything solid in your stomach until this has happened. It will distend your abdomen and become painful. Start with a liquid diet (soup, jello, broth, etc...) until you can tolerate them without nausea or vomiting. You can adjust back to your regular diet as tolerated. A well balanced diet is necessary for proper healing. Avoid rich heavy foods and those with little nutritional value.

CONSTIPATION

Anesthesia and pain medication may cause constipation. It is common to not have a bowel movement for up to four days after surgery. Walking stimulates your bowels, so keep moving. Eating a diet of whole grain cereals, fruits, fruit juices or by using over the counter laxatives such as Senokot, Milk of Magnesia, Miralax, Colace, Magnesium Citrate,etc. can help alleviate constipation. If constipation persists, try a Fleets enema or glycerine suppository which can be obtained over the counter at most pharmacies.

FEVER

Contact us immediately to report a temperature above 101.5°F. It is common to develop a low grade temp (<101.5) postoperatively. This is most commonly caused by a build up of fluid in the lungs (atelectasis). You can help get rid of this by use of your incentive spirometer, deep breathing, and walking.

INCISION

Your incision will be covered with a layer of Steri-Strips(tm). Do not remove the Steri-Strips. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or any drainage around the incision contact us immediately.

DRESSINGS

Change your dressing every day. You will be given a prescription for dressing supplies (sterile 4X4 gauze sponges and tape/ tegaderms). It is best to keep your incision dry, and change your dressing after you shower.

MEDICATIONS

Prior to leaving the hospital you will be given prescriptions for medications designed to relieve Pain, Nausea, and Muscle Spasms. Please take them as prescribed.

You may resume your normal medication regimen when you arrive home, unless otherwise directed.

DRIVING

You may drive only when you have recovered full physical and mental coordination. We recommend that you not drive until you are out of your collar. You must be able to operate your vehicle under any and all road conditions. Do not drive after taking pain medications, or any other medications that affect your ability to function safely.

SEXUAL RELATIONS

You may resume sexual relations during the recovery period as tolerated. If it hurts... don't do it.

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS

You have been scheduled two follow-up appointments. The first is scheduled for two weeks after surgery and the second is set for six weeks after surgery. The actual dates are written on your "Surgery Instructions".

QUESTIONS?

For emergencies, patients undergoing surgery at the Center for Spine Care can call (214)378-7200. If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, your surgical team is available 24 hours/day and 7 days/week.