Post-procedure/Post-surgery aftercare

Open/Laparoscopic APR

Hospital stays after a laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection range from 5 to 7 days. You'll be fitted with a pouch immediately after surgery. It will take a few days for your digestive system to become active again, which is signalled by the passing of gas and then stool through the stoma. Your diet slowly increases from ice chips to liquids to solid foods as your intestines start healing. While you are recovering in the hospital, a nurse will show you how to care for your stoma. You'll also receive instructions and be coached through the process of managing your stoma when you return home.

Hernia repair

Most people who have hernia repair surgery are able to go home the same day. Recovery time can be up to 3 weeks. You can most likely return to light activity after 3 weeks. You will need to avoid strenuous exercise for 6 weeks after the procedure. Avoid doing anything that causes pain. You'll probably be able to drive again two weeks after the procedure or when you no longer have pain in your groin. 

Colonoscopy/gastroscopy

You'll be taken to a recovery room to sit or lie down quietly after your procedure. This may be for an hour or so. During this time, our healthcare team will monitor you as the sedation wears off.

Once you're at home, you may experience some mild sign and symptoms, such as:

• Cramping
• Bloating
• Sore throat

These signs and symptoms will improve over time. If you're concerned or feel uncomfortable, call Dr Taylor's office. It is advised that you take it easy for the rest of the day following the procedure.

Your diet might be restricted to a soft food for a few days after the procedure if any polyps or other abnormal tissues are removed. Finding a little blood in your stool after the procedure is normal. However, if it continues or you experience abdominal pain or a fever over 37℃, please contact us immediately.

Other procedures/surgeries

For some procedures, you may be able to go home on the same day. For others, you may need to stay in hospital for a few days. Some procedures also require you to have several tubes attached to your body, including an IV tube in your arm to give you fluids and any necessary medication. These tubes are removed after 24 hours. Supplementary oxygen may be given by nasal prongs. Antibiotics are given in some circumstances, particularly if the surgery has been performed as an emergency.