Casco Bay Surgery

Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Post-Operative Instructions

Description of the Operation

I'll do this by using three or four small instruments passed through little puncture wounds on your abdomen. I'll close your skin with tiny pieces of tape or transparent glue. You should be able to go home the same day, but it’s always wise to be prepared to spend one night in the hospital.

Your Recovery

Because of the way your operation will be performed, I'll put little or no restrictions on your physical activity after the operation. Your level of discomfort should prevent you from over-exerting yourself. As long as you don't lift or strain beyond the point where it hurts, you should be fine. Your pain will most likely fade rapidly, so you should be able to return to work or normal activities within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the activities. You may resume showering the day after surgery. Simply let the pieces of tape or spots of glue fall off on their own.

Pain Relief After Surgery

1. Take Extra Strength Tylenol (or generic acetaminophen) 1000mg every 6 hours for 3 days, then only as needed to control discomfort.

2. Take Advil (or generic ibuprofen) 600mg every 6 hours for 3 days, then only as needed to control discomfort. [DO NOT use Advil if you have a history of stomach or intestinal ulcers or have had problems taking aspirin in the past.]

3. Take 1-2 oxycodone 5mg tablets every 3 hours as needed for discomfort that remains after taking Tylenol & Advil. Not everybody needs this, so you might choose not to fill the prescription. This is a narcotic pain killer. If you use it you must beware of becoming drowsy or inattentive, and you will not be able to drive or operate dangerous equipment. It can also cause nausea and constipation.

The above combination is for maximum pain control. You may skip some or all of the medications if you're comfortable without them.

Most Frequent Problems

Discomfort - It is usually near the puncture wounds, but a dull shoulder ache can occasionally last for a day or two.

Nausea - If you feel okay when you leave the hospital but start to feel nauseated at home, it is probably caused by the prescription pain killer. You might want to take only the Tylenol and Advil in that case or call me for a different prescription (which might also cause nausea).

Bruising - This might show up at or near your puncture wounds. It is normal bruising and will fade away.

Reasons to Call Me

1. Pain not controlled by your medication

2. Fever and wound redness or persistent leakage from an incision

3. Any questions or concerns what-so-ever

Pre-Operative Appointment (if required)

Hospital:

Report to: Date: Time:

Surgery Appointment

** Don't eat or drink after midnight before surgery (except to take your usual medication). **

Hospital:

Report to: Date:

Arrival Time: Surgery Time:

Post-Operative Office Appointment

Date: Time:

I would like to see you in 3-4 weeks. Please call to confirm your appointment or to arrange one if you don't have a date & time yet.

Last updated 4/7/07