Postoperative instructions – Major Surgery

Pre-operative instructions - Major Surgery

  • Go directly home after the procedure
  • Raise the leg above the level of the heart to control the swelling
  • Put ice 15 minutes per hour for the first 3 days, on the exposed portion (ankle, calf or toes) but not directly on the bandage
  • Keep the bandage dry at all times. The bandage will be changed only by the surgeon. If the bandage is wet by accident, call immediately the surgeon.
  • If a little blood pierces the bandage, reinforced it with an additional bandage. If a lot of blood pierces, immediately contact the surgeon

The anaesthesia will last about four hours, plan accordingly to take painkillers

If the pain persists, do not take anti-inflammatory drugs (Advil, ibuprofen, etc…) As this may increase the chance of bleeding. Tylenol or acetaminophen can be tolerated, if discussed with the pharmacist or surgeon.

 

Contact the surgeon if :

  • Severe pain not controlled with medication, ice and elevation
  • Calf pain, difficulty breathing, palpitations, etc…
  • Redness beyond the bandage, not related to the application of ice

Contact:

Dr Sandrine Therrien, D.P.M.,  at the clinic : 514-725-4769/ for emergency (cell): 514-773-0201