Patient Education | Patient Instructions | Before Procedure Care | After Procedure Care | Diet & Nutrition | FAQ | Laparoscopic Colectomy

After Procedure Care

Remember that your body needs time to heal. Small incisions DO NOT MEAN SMALL OPERATION!

Following major surgeries:

• You will be encouraged to be out of bed the day after surgery and to walk.
• You will probably be able to get back to most of your normal activities in one to two weeks time. These activities include showering, driving, walking up stairs, working and engaging in sexual intercourse.
• Minimal restrictions in diet should be instituted. Ask for Nutritional guidance.
• Call and schedule a follow-up appointment within 2 weeks after your operation.

WHAT COMPLICATIONS CAN OCCUR?

• Bleeding
• Infection
• A leak where the colon was connected back together.
• Obstructions
• Injury to adjacent organs such as the small intestine, ureter, or bladder
• Blood clots to the lungs.
• It is important for you to recognize the early signs of possible complications. Contact your physician if you notice any of the following symptoms.

WHEN TO CALL!

• Persistent fever over 101 degrees F (39 C)
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Increasing abdominal swelling
• Pain that is not relieved by your medications
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Chills
• Persistent cough or shortness of breath
• Purulent drainage (pus) from any incision
• Redness surrounding any of your incisions that is worsening or getting bigger
• You are unable to eat or drink liquids 

Following Colonoscopies:

You will be kept in the center until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. With the newer medications used, you will feel the effects of the medication wearing off very soon after the completion of the procedure. You may feel bloated for a few minutes right after the procedure because of the air that was introduced. You will be able to resume your diet after the procedure unless you are instructed otherwise.

Remember our policy "NO RIDE BACK HOME = NO PROCEDURE". Please be accompanied by someone that can drive you back home. You will not be permitted to drive home alone. Do not operate any equipment or vehicles, or make important decisions until the following morning.

Satisfaction is our goal! Please take time to fill out our provider feedback survey. We want to thank you for your time.

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