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The operation will take approximately 2 hours. Six hours will be spent closely monitoring blood pressure and other factors in the recovery room. |
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Our goal is to have people ready to go home within twenty four hours. |
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In 80% of cases this is attainable based on comfort and medical stability. In the other cases, temporary problems with blood pressure, heart rhythm and other factors may lead to a longer stay. These will be further regulated until discharge is considered safe. |
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At discharge, there are no sutures in the neck incision to remove unless you have been specifically instructed otherwise. The wound may be left open but a light (Mepore) dressing is suggested for comfort. |
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Shaving may be deferred for a few days but can be resumed quickly. Keep in mind, the area between the incision and the chin may be numb for some time so be careful. |
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In some cases a piece of vein is harvested from the ankle area to use as a patch for the operated artery. This incision, if present may have surgical clips or sutures that do need to be removed. The ideal time is 7-10 days post operatively and can be done by your family doctor, a home care nurse or your surgeon. It may be wise to make arrangements for this as soon as you get home. As mentioned, this patch is not always needed. |
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Be as active as comfort allows. Turning the head and looking up is uncomfortable in the first two weeks but steadily improves. |
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Showering and bathing may be resumed after two to three days. |
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Do not drive until a complete range of neck movement has been restored and you are no longer taking narcotic containing painkillers. |
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Continue to take all preoperative medications unless directed otherwise. |
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Continue on one aspirin a day. There is no universal agreement on the best dosage. Some people advocate a baby (81mg) aspirin daily while others suggest an adult (325mg) tablet. My preference is the adult simply because it is inexpensive and it works. |
