Rectopexy Post-Op Instructions
These instructions are for patients recovering after robotic rectopexy.
Please follow the specific instructions given by Dr. Aisha Akhtar and the surgical team. In general, patients should expect to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks, focus on a high-fiber diet and stool softeners to prevent straining, and gradually increase activity as tolerated.
General Recovery and Activity
Rest and activity
Prioritize rest after surgery. Gradually increase your activity as you feel comfortable.
Avoid strenuous activity
Avoid strenuous activity, including running, gym workouts, or heavy lifting, for at least 4-6 weeks, or as directed by your surgeon.
Lifting restrictions
Avoid lifting anything heavier than a few pounds for several weeks unless your surgeon gives you different instructions.
If you were given a specific lifting limit, follow that limit. In general, do not lift more than 30 lbs unless cleared by your surgeon.
Walking
Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity as tolerated.
Driving
Do not drive until cleared by your surgeon.
If you are not taking narcotic pain medication and feel safe to drive, you may be able to drive after 2 days, unless your surgeon gives you different instructions.
Work
You may need to take time off work depending on your job duties and recovery progress.
Showering
You may shower 24-48 hours after surgery, unless your surgical team gives you different instructions.
Avoid baths for the first 2 weeks or until your doctor tells you it is okay.
Bowel Habits and Diet
Use stool softeners as prescribed to help prevent straining during bowel movements.
High-fiber diet
Eat a high-fiber diet to help promote regular bowel movements and avoid constipation.
Hydration
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated unless you were told to restrict fluids.
Sitz baths
Take sitz baths 2-3 times daily, especially after bowel movements, to soothe the area.
A sitz bath means sitting in warm water for comfort and cleansing.
Avoid straining
Do not strain during bowel movements. Straining can place pressure on the repair.
Avoid bowel irritants
Avoid foods or drinks that may irritate your bowels, including:
- spicy foods
- alcohol
- caffeine
Pain Management
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for pain medication.
Take pain medication only as directed. Contact the office if your pain is not controlled with the medication plan provided.
Incision Care
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound or incision care.
Keep the incision area clean and monitor for signs of infection.
Follow-up Appointments
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
Your doctor will check how you are healing and advise when you can return to normal activity, lifting, work, driving, and other restrictions.
Smoking and Alcohol
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can interfere with healing.
Sexual Activity
Ask your doctor when it is safe to resume sexual activity after surgery.
When to Call the Office
Contact your surgeon if you experience unusual symptoms, including:
- severe pain
- fever
- signs of infection
- worsening redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from an incision
- symptoms that are not improving as expected
- any concern about your recovery
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