After surgery driving is usually restricted for two reasons, first your safety, and second, the safety of others. You may resume driving when your reflexes and ability to react have returned to normal. Almost everyone after surgery, is limited to a degree in their range of motion, and reaction time. This is almost always a consequence of postoperative pain and swelling. During this phase of recovery, patients typically take narcotic type pain medication which is often impairing in the operation of a motor vehicle. As a rule, then, we do not recommend driving until you are free of pain and stiffness without medication, which for most patients is around three to four weeks. Our desire is that you remain safe and healthy. In some cases driving should be postponed even further, if you have any doubts about this we would suggest you do not drive. Initially, when resuming driveing, we suggest to start at low traffic times, and short trips to regain your confidence.
All patients who have undergone a significant hospitalization or surgery are at risk for major blood clots in the lower extremities that can break off and block the blood flow through the lungs. After your surgery, you were placed on blood thinners and/or stockings to reduce this risk(in some cases these techniques are not tolerated). However when you return home you are still at an increased risk for clotting as your body is adapting to the healing process. So we reccomend you continue to wear your stockings, if applicable, for up to six weeks after your operation. Also avoid crossing your legs and long rides in the car, or commercial air travel, and/or any other prolonged sedentary activity. We encourage at least twice daily walks and as much activity as you can tolerate.
Most patients can resume normal sexual activity upon leaving the hospital, unless otherwise instructed. If you have any concerns please contact our office.
After major surgery, you find it difficult to climb stairs due to early fatigue. We place no limit in general on climbing stairs, we ask that you allow yourself longer than usual, by about 4 x's, to ascend a stairway. Take one step at a time and remeber to turn and sit if you become light-headed from the increase in activity. You should turn and sit on the steps as soon as you feel yourself getting tired and rest before you continue. We would strongly urge you to have someone steady you the first few times untill you are comfortable with your own ability.