Colon Rectal Surgical Associates
Robert P. Akbari, MD
410-363-6664

Postoperative Instructions following Abdominal Surgery

1. Remember you just underwent major surgery (even if done laparoscopically). You will feel tired, fatigued, and out of sorts for weeks. Take it easy. Your body needs a chance to heal.
   
2. No driving for 2 weeks postoperatively or before follow-up appointment---whichever comes sooner. Certainly no driving when on narcotic pain pills (percocet, vicodin, etc)
   
3. You will typically be given a prescription for a narcotic pain pill. Take them as directed. Do not be concerned with the possibility of tolerance or addiction. This is virtually unheard of in this setting.
   
4. Normal daily activities at home such as walking and climbing stairs are OK. In fact they are encouraged, you want to keep limber and active.
   
5. No vigorous activities for 6 weeks, particularly those that involve straining the abdominal wall muscles (no lifting over 15 lbs---examples include lifting toddlers or laundry loads, also includes shoveling snow or weight lifting); this time period is when you are most susceptible to hernia formation.
   
6. You can shower or sponge bath for 6 weeks. Just don’t soak wounds for long time periods as in baths or Jacuzzi/whirlpools. OK for soapy water to gently touch incisions for brief time periods.
   
7. If you have steri-strips, you can remove them if they haven’t fallen off by 2 weeks. Often times, they will be removed during your first postop visit by the surgeon.
   
8. If you have staples, the surgeon will remove them in the office during follow-up. While in, it is common for them to feel “itchey” and for you to feel them “tug” every now and then.
   
9. In regards to diet, a low-residue/low-fiber diet is recommended initially (6 weeks) to minimize crampy pains and bloating. Highly seasoned foods should be limited. Also, staying hydrated is very important.
   
10. Contact surgeon with any concerning symptoms such as: fevers/chills/new skin redness/ new wound drainage (signs of infection), bleeding, or lightheadedness.
    
11. It is not uncommon after colon surgery to have erratic bowel habits (diarrhea/constipation/changes in bowel movement frequency etc). It may take weeks for a new baseline to be reached. However, if diarrhea or constipation are excessive, do not hesitate to contact surgeon regarding this.
    
12. Call for follow-up appointment as instructed on discharge from hospital.
    
13. If any questions or concerns are not addressed here, feel free to call surgeon. There will always be someone available to address your questions/concerns.

Disclaimer: The above are generalized instructions for the “average” patient. Any instructions given by surgeon on discharge specifically to you supersede those enumerated above.

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