Here are our answers to some common questions asked by people considering complex spine surgery. While we offer these answers as a general guideline on what to expect for outpatient spine surgery, we strongly encourage you to talk to your surgeon for the most accurate information as each patient and each surgery is unique.
How do I know I need to have complex spine surgery?
After an evaluation with a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, it is determined whether or not you are a surgical candidate. Complex spine surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments, like physical therapy, medications or injections have not provided enough relief and your condition is either severe or progressing significantly.
What will my activity level be like after complex spine surgery?
No bending, lifting or twisting. It is important to take short frequent walks daily, gradually increasing the distance as you can. You may use stairs. It is recommended to start slowly, with assistance, doing one full flight of stairs per day, then gradually increase as tolerated. At your post operative visit, your surgeon will let you know when you may return to your normal activities.
If I am a cervical patient, do I have restrictions on how to move my head after surgery?
Yes. You will be sent home wearing a c-collar with specific instructions not to look up or side to side. You may look straight ahead and down. It is important for you to keep your head elevated after surgery to help with reducing swelling and pain. Note: Image is just an example of a c-collar, style/type may vary.
Will I wear a brace after surgery?
Depending on your surgery and your surgeon’s preference, you may wear a brace after surgery. If you did not receive one prior to surgery and your surgeon wants you to have one, you will receive it at UnaSource the day of surgery.
Will I have numbness or tingling after surgery?
Yes. During nerve healing and regeneration, swelling is expected and normal. Therefore, it is normal to have some numbness and tingling for a couple of weeks after surgery.
Will I hurt after surgery?
Pain is expected after surgery. Many patients experience increased pain due to swelling day 2 after surgery. It is recommended to ice the surgical site, rest, take short walks hourly during awake hours, and take pain medications as needed. Pain is different for each patient and may continue throughout the recovery period.
Will I need narcotics after surgery?
Most patients will take a narcotic following a complex spine procedure. Narcotic pain medications are to be used for the shortest time possible, on an as needed basis. It is important to follow what your surgeon tells you about pain medicine.
What are non-medicine ways to help me with my pain?
Ice packs, relaxation/deep breathing, change positions often, logroll, activities such as TV, visitors, books, music, and short, frequent walks. Page 26 of our Spine Surgery Experience Guide has a list of methods to relieve pain without medication.
When can I drive after surgery?
You can be a passenger in the car immediately. It is ultimately up to your surgeon when you may start driving on your own after surgery. For most patients, it can take 2-3 weeks before starting to drive short distances. You cannot drive while you are taking narcotic pain medications.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Your surgeon will let you know if you need outpatient physical therapy at your post operative appointment. Most complex spine patients do not need this.
Why UnaSource Surgery Center?
- We go the extra mile to ensure quality care!Our complex spine program brings collaboration between the surgeon, the UnaSource Surgery Center team, and external quality agencies to ensure our patients obtain the safest and best possible recovery.
- We are uniquely certified in advanced orthopaedics! As of the date of this post, we are one of only 2 ambulatory surgery centers in Michigan who have achieved specialty certification in advanced orthopaedicsfrom the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).
- We ask other professionals to hold us accountable for achieving excellence! We voluntarily participate in MSSIC, a statewide initiative that connects surgeons, hospitals, ambulatory surgery facilities, and health care providers to enhance the quality of spine surgeries in Michigan.
How can I find a list of surgeons who operate at UnaSource Surgery Center?
Visit our website for a list of providers who perform surgery at our center.
Where can I find education materials?
Complex spine educational materials are available on our website at https://www.unasourcesurgery.com/spine-surgery/
Who can I call if I have any questions?
You can reach our Ortho Coordinators at 248-265-4632 with any questions.