Mr Pollalis will give you specific postoperative instructions depending on your type of surgery. Here are some of the basic general instructions you need to follow after any surgery:
- Take pain-relieving and other medications as advised. Pain-relieving medication should be taken with food. The regular pain relief medicines should be taken for 7 days irrespective of your pain score. After the first 7 days of surgery, take the pain medication only when needed.
- You may be offered a very strong, fast-acting pain medicine (Oxycodone IR or Shortec) to be used for breakthrough pain. This is prescribed for the first few days only. This medication can be very addictive and must not be continued longer than this period. Please do not approach your GP to ask for it to be continued.
- Do not drink alcohol, drive a vehicle, operate any machinery, or sign a legal document for the first 24 hours after the surgery as the effects of the sedative and/or the anaesthesia administered during the surgery may last for the first 24 hours of the surgery.
- Use ice packs to control swelling. However, make sure that the ice bag does not leak into the dressing. Ice packs can be used liberally for the first 48 hours and even later if required.
- Keep the dressing clean and dry to promote wound healing.
- Try to begin physical therapy as soon as possible after the surgery, ideally on the same day. Exercises in the first week are usually aimed at regaining joint motion. Strengthening exercises are initiated later. Regular exercises are critical for a successful outcome.
- Remember that rest plays an important part during the healing process. It is easier to prevent developing pain rather than managing it once it has already developed if you do too much. Try to keep the operated extremity elevated, whilst resting, above the level of your heart, to control swelling.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of non-alcoholic and non-caffeinated drinks.
- Schedule your follow-up appointment with Mr Pollalis as advised.
Please consult Mr Pollalis immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Increased drainage from the incision
- Increased redness around the operated area
- Increased swelling that does not decrease with ice and elevation
- Foul odour
- Fever greater than 38.5°C
- Coldness, numbness, or blanched white or bluish colour of the fingers or toes
- Sudden calf pain or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
