After your procedure, you will be moved to our fully equipped recovery room where the anesthesiologist and our nurses will observe you closely until you are ready to go home. Your doctor will want to talk with a family member or caregiver after your surgery, so it is important for this person to answer the phone number given to the center. They do not need to stay in the building if they don’t want to.
The time a patient stays in the recovery room will vary depending on the procedure performed and the physicians’ instructions, but most patients are discharged 30 to 90 minutes after their procedure. It is likely you may not remember that entire time due to post anesthesia effects. This is normal.
Your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions about diet, rest, exercise and medications. The center will provide you with a summary of these instructions before you are discharged. We suggest you pamper yourself for the first 24 hours following your procedure. It is important to get up and walk for a few minutes and do ankle flexion exercises every hour or two during awake hours.
Post op pain
While we want to make you as comfortable as possible, it is expected that you will have some pain and discomfort. This is normal. Take your pain medication as prescribed. If you have concerns or problems with your medication, you will need to call the surgeon's office as the center does not handle that.
Blocks
Some patients will receive blocks prior to surgery. This will also help with pain for the first 18 to 24 hours; however, blocks do not take away all the pain and discomfort. This is also normal.
Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated is crucial for recovery, assists in healing, flushes anesthesia from your system, prevents constipation from pain meds, and supports circulation.
If you have anesthesia and or pain medications, arrange for an adult to remain with you at home for at least 24 hours. Since it is normal to feel drowsy, lightheaded, and weak after receiving anesthetic. Have a family member or caretaker assist you when changing positions, getting out of bed or going to the bathroom. Do not try to do this on your own for the first 48 hours, or until you feel strong and steady enough.
For the first 24 hours we recommend that you postpone these activities:
- Driving or operating equipment
- Signing important papers
- Making significant decisions
- Drinking alcoholic beverages
If you have unexpected problems, please call your physician. A nurse will attempt to call you the next business day to check your progress and discuss any questions you may have. Please note we are closed on weekends and holidays.