How do you care for an ACDF incision?

How do you care for an ACDF incision?

It is good to let soapy water run over the incision but not to scrub or directly wash the incision. Surgeons may have different advice for when it is OK to take a first shower; it’s usually about 2 to 3 days after the surgery. Incisions should be gently patted dry and a new dressing applied daily for the first 5 days.

How do I clean my ACDF incision?

Cleaning an incision

1. Gently wash it with soap and water to remove the crust.
2. Do not scrub or soak the wound.
3. Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine, which can harm the tissue and slow wound healing.
4. Air-dry the incision or pat it dry with a clean, fresh towel before reapplying the dressing.

How long does it take for an incision to heal after ACDF surgery?

The first few weeks after surgery are critical, and on average, your incision will take between 3-4 weeks to heal fully. Although activities will typically no impact the healing of the incision, certain activities should be avoided so as not to disrupt the bone healing, which you won’t see.

How long does it take for cervical incision to heal?

Caring for the Incision The small incision site at the front of the neck is typically 1 to 2 inches long and takes 10 to 14 days to heal. During this time, the wound must be kept clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.

Can I bend over after ACDF surgery?

ACTIVITY: For the first two weeks after surgery – prior to your first post-operative follow up visit – you should limit your lifting to no more than 10 pounds (roughly what a gallon of milk weighs). You should avoid any excessive bending or twisting of the neck beyond what is needed for normal daily activities.

When can you put lotion on a surgical incision?

The original dressing can be left in place for up to two days (or as advised by the nurse/doctor), as long as it is not oozing. The wound must be kept dry for two days. If the dressing becomes wet from blood or any other liquid, it must be changed. do not apply antiseptic cream under the dressing.

What helps surgical wounds heal faster?

Six ways to speed up the healing process after surgery

1. Give your body proper healing energy.
2. Get out of bed.
3. Remember to hydrate.
4. Grant yourself permission to rest.
5. Get proper wound care.
6. Follow instructions.
7. An approach to healing.

What should I eat after ACDF?

Yogurt, applesauce, creamy soups (no chunks), and other soft foods are good choices during the recovery period when swallowing is still difficult. Puree hard foods.

How long does sore throat last after ACDF surgery?

2) You will wear a cervical collar for at least 4 weeks post-operatively. This should be worn at all times (including in bed) but may be removed for showering. 3) About 3-4 days after surgery, you throat will become swollen. This usually lasts 1-2 days and you may want to sleep in a recliner for that time.

How long wear neck brace after cervical fusion?

Neck Brace Multiple level cervical fusion patients need to wear a Miami-J collar for 4-6 weeks post-operatively; single level cervical fusion patients need to wear the Miami-J collar for 2 weeks. Driving is prohibited while wearing your neck brace.

What is an anterior cervical discectomy?

Anterior cervical discectomy is surgery to remove one or more cervical discs from your neck. A cervical disc is material that cushions and separates the vertebrae of your neck.

What is the anterior approach to the cervical spine?

Anterior approach to the cervical spine 1 Incision#N#The side of the incision, left or right mainly depends on the surgeons’ preference.#N#By using a left sided… 2 Dissection#N#Platysma muscle is transected in line with the skin incision.#N#The deep cervical fascia is identified and… 3 Closure More

What are the follow-up intervals for cervical discectomy and fusion surgery?

The typical follow-up intervals for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery are: 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years post-op. Activity restrictions will be progressively lifted during the first several visits, but depending on the extent of your surgery you may have a permanent activity restriction.

What are the side effects of anterior cervical spine surgery?

You may experience a lump feeling when swallowing, excessive phlegm production, or sore throat after anterior cervical spine surgery. Due to the nature of this approach and intraoperative manipulations, you may experience the following temporary side effects: dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and hoarseness of voice.