Coflex

Coflex is a minimally invasive, out-patient surgery.

Through a small incision, the Coflex device is placed to reduce pain caused by spinal stenosis. Unlike a spinal fusion, the implant preserves motion. Your spine can still move naturally you will notice a decrease in the spinal stenosis symptoms, such as limited walking distance, the need to lean on surfaces for support, the need to sit, and of course back and leg pain.

Coflex - Post Operative Instructions

Post Anesthesia:

If you received anesthesia/sedation for the remainder of the day you so you should NOT make critical decisions or sign any legal documents. You should NOT consume alcohol. You should NOT drive or operate heavy machinery.

Medications:

You may be prescribed a post-operative medications, if so take as instructed. If you are on a blood thinner speak with your doctor about when to resume.

Incision Care:

If there is a dressing, you may remove it 24 hours after surgery BEFORE your shower. If surgical glue is used expect it will slowly peel off within 14 days. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as: redness, swelling or drainage at incision site, or temperature greater than 101°. (Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal) .

Bathing:

You may shower 24 HOURS after surgery, once dressing has been removed. Avoid scrubbing the incision site for 72 hours. For one week after surgery: gently apply a small amount of Neosporin to the incision site. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.

Restrictions:

For 2-4 weeks after surgery:

No strenuous activity
No lifting greater than 10 lbs

Exercise:

You may not do strenuous workouts for the first 10 days. You may take gentle walks and increase your light activity each day, such as walking, as tolerated.

Diet:

Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.

Smoking:

Avoid smoking. Smoking decreases the rate of bone and skin healing and also interferes with the effectiveness of the pain medication.

Driving:

You may driver after day 7 if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.

Follow-Up:

You may experience soreness of the hips for up to 7 days due to changes in your posture post-operatively. You will have a post-operative appointment approximately 14 days after surgery. If you have not already made your 2 week follow-up appointment, call your surgeons office to make one.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office triage line at 734-373-7246. If it is AFTER HOURS call the answering service at 734-572-7418 for the provider on call.