Patient Checklist
Before surgery
- Stop smoking
- Remove hazards at home and put items within reach
- Stop taking aspirin and ibuprofen (or any non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs) several days before surgery
- Don’t eat or drink after midnight prior to surgery
After surgery
- Take your pain medication as directed
- Follow physical rehabilitation plan as prescribed
- Do not drive until your surgeon approves
- Schedule your post-operative exam
Long-term recovery
- Ask your surgeon about resuming work and other activities
- Attend follow-up exams following your rehabilitation program as recommended by your surgeon
When should I call my surgeon?
You should call your surgeon if you notice any of the following:
- Increased back or leg pain, numbness, tingling or weakness that does not decrease with rest
- Swelling in your legs
- Increased pain, redness or drainage from your incision
- Fever
- Chest pain
* Always follow the instructions from your physician
