Vertebroplasty
Congratulations!
You have undergone, or are soon to undergo, a new, "minimally
invasive" technique of repairing your compression fracture called
Vertebroplasty. Because this technique is much less invasive than other surgical
techniques, you will have much less pain than usual, a shorter hospital stay
(most patients go home within 4 - 5 hours of surgery), require much less pain
medicine, and return to your normal activities much faster than usual.
However, although this technique has all these
benefits, it is still a surgical procedure, and certain precautions should be
followed before and after your surgery. The list below is intended to help you
understand what you should and should not do before and after surgery.
Stop
taking all aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. Advil,
Naproxsyn, Relafen, etc.) one week before surgery.έ Make sure you are not taking any blood
thinners.
Shower
the morning before surgery with an antibacterial soap, such as μDialξ.
Do
not eat or drink for six hours prior to the surgery.
If
you are allergic to iodine, shellfish, or any medications, tell your doctor and
nurses.
If
you have any questions about other medications, ask your doctor.
Use
your prescribed pain medication, muscle relaxants, and laxatives as directed.
If
instructed to, wear your brace as directed.
You
have NO stitches to remove. Small bandages are on your incision. These can be
removed in 24 hours.
Do
not soak in a bathtub or shower for 24 hours.
Do
not do any heavy lifting for 3 months (i.e. nothing heavier than a carton of
milk). After that you can gradually increase your lifting to normal. Walking is
encouraged and bending can be done within the restrictions of your brace.
Schedule
a return clinic visit for approximately 11days after surgery.
Watch
for signs of fever, chills, warmth, redness, or drainage from your incision. A
slight amount of bleeding is normal for a day or two following surgery.