Sacroiliac Fusion - Post Operative Instructions

 

Incision Care:   Dressing may be removed 24 hours after surgery, if no drainage. If used, surgical glue will come off within 14 days.  Please call us with any changes or concerns such as:

• redness

• swelling or drainage at incision site

• temperature greater than 101°                                                     

 

Bathing:   You may shower 24 hours after surgery; avoid scrubbing the incision site for 72 hours. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.

 

Restrictions:

For 6 weeks after surgery:

• No strenuous activity

• No lifting greater than 10lbs

• No bending or twisting at waistline

• No overhead reaching

 

Exercise:  Increase your light activity each day, such as walking, as tolerated.

 

Driving:  You may drive the day after the procedure if you feel okay to do so.  Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.

 

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 pain medication.

 

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 7-10 days after surgery.  

 

Please understand this is a surgery and soreness from healing is normal, even for weeks after the surgery. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at ‭(734) 373-7246