Post Operative Care Patient Guidelines
During this surgery, the surgeon will access the spine through an incision made in the front of the neck. The surgeon will gently move the esophagus and trachea out of the way to reach the spine. After surgery the patient should adhere to the information below to ensure proper healing:

Post-Op: Activities/Limitations:

• No driving until first appointment.
• No lifting greater than 10 pounds until first appointment.
• No extension of neck (looking up).
• No soaking in a pool of water, showering is ok.
• No running
• Do plenty of walking and light activity
• Avoid straining
• No dressing necessary on incision.

Immediately Notify MD or PA:

• Temp greater than 101.0°F
• Clear fluid or urine colored fluid draining from incision site.
• Fever of any kind with headache or neck stiffness.
• Increasing difficulty swallowing.
• Increasing hoarseness.
• Increasing or spreading redness and/or white/yellow discharge from incision site.
• It is normal to feel tired, and require more rest than usual for the first six weeks after surgery. However, doing as much walking as you can handle will help with the healing process and get you to return to your normal life faster.

Call with any questions or concerns (619) 810-1010