How big is the scar from ACDF surgery?
The skin incision is one to two inches and is be made on the left or right hand side of the neck. The incision is usually made horizontally within a natural skin crease, though occasionally a more vertical incision is used for multilevel cases.
How long does it take for an incision to heal from ACDF?
Tub baths, Jacuzzi’s, whirlpools and swimming pools should be avoided until all incisions are completely healed (which takes approximately 3-4 weeks) to reduce the risk of infection.
Do I need to wear a collar after ACDF surgery?
The collar is not there to restrict all neck movement. It is there to restrict excessive movement to allow the bone graft to heal. 2. Following some fusions, you will wear a hard cervical collar for approximately 6 weeks after your surgery.
How long does it take for cervical incision to heal?
It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get back to your usual activities. How long it takes depends on what kind of surgery you had. Your doctor may advise you to work with a physiotherapist to strengthen the muscles around your neck and back.
How do you sleep after ACDF?
The best sleeping position to reduce your pain after surgery is either on your back with your knees bent and a pillow under your knees or on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between your legs.
Do you lose weight after spinal fusion?
Body weight change following lumbar surgery in overweight patients varied between the two included studies. One study reported 6% of patients lost weight 34 months following lumbar surgery, while 35% gained body weight.
Why do my shoulders hurt after ACDF surgery?
Some patients are surprised that the most bothersome pain immediately following ACDF surgery may not be in the neck but rather in the upper back and shoulders (due to the fusion altering the attached muscles’ biomechanics) or in the hip (if bone graft was taken from there).
How do you wipe yourself after surgery?
While wiping, bend from the knees rather than at the hips. A long- handled device may help to reach all areas. 4. The use of pre-moistened, flushable wipes is strongly recommended.