Post-op Care Advice after Urologic and Andrologic Surgeries

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Sep 27, 2017/ 0 Comments / by

SONY DSCAfter urologic and andrologic surgeries, the patient must follow certain rules so the surgery results are satisfactory and fulfil the objectives set out by your specialist before the intervention. The following is a list of FAQs intended to help patients who recently underwent a genitourinary surgery to have a more comfortable post-op process, thus diminishing the risk of postoperative complications.

Can I go back to work the next day?

It depends on the type of job you do and on the type of surgery:

    • Outpatient procedures. If the patient has a desk-based job, , there is no problem to go back to work in the very same afternoon after the surgery. However, it would be advisable to avoid positions that keep your legs crossed, in order to prevent exerting pressure in the area where the surgical wound is located. It is also advisable to stand up every 30 minutes so as to improve blood circulation and oxygenation
  • Procedure with hospital admission. The surgeon will determine the best moment to discharge the patient and will also indicate what kind of work they may do. Ideally, patients should take some time out to recover after this kind of surgery, and wait for at least 48 hours before going back to work. If the patient’s job requires a considerable physical effort, (lifting weight, driving for long periods of time, etc.) then he will have to request a medical leave for a few days and take it easy at home until the doctor determines he can resume his daily activities.

What does “relative rest” mean?

Relative rest means avoiding physical effort which entails sudden or abrupt movements, as well as lifting weight or doing sports.

Although it may seem a minor and controlled movement, all muscle chains in our body start functioning with the slightest move, which puts all surrounding muscles to work –even those near the surgical wound. Without noticing it, these movements lead to strain in the area, which is more sensitive after the intervention. Avoiding these unnecessary efforts will facilitate the natural healing process after surgery.

Furthermore, it is recommendable to change posture once in a while so as to avoid being too many hours in the same position (whether standing or sitting).

Can I practice sports or go to the gym?

During the first days the patient cannot practice any sport in order to avoid the formation of oedemas, the tearing of stitches (if there are any), or the occurrence of wound haematomas. Ideally, the patient must wait for at least 15 days before resuming sporting activity after outpatient interventions and, at least from 4 to 5 weeks after interventions with hospital admission. In any case, the doctor will determine whether or not the patient can do any sport.

What about sex?

As with sports, it is necessary to keep an “abstinence period” before safely resuming your sexual life. Although it depends on each patient and on the type of surgery, it is habitual to wait from 4 to 5 weeks before any sexual activity, including masturbation.

What kind of care should I take with the surgical wound?

It is essential to maintain proper hygiene in the wound with the help of products with neutral pH so as to avoid any possible infection. Special attention must be paid to the correct washing and drying of the wound area; please do it gently to avoid any pain!

Also, the doctor might ask the patient to wash the wound with soapy Betadine, which will ensure a thorough and antiseptic clean. Patients must always wash hands before and after cleaning the wound.

Patients must wear cotton underwear with enough gripping so as to hold the genitals in place and limit their movement. It is preferable to avoid tight clothing and to choose loose garments instead.

Can any problem emerge if I don’t follow the post-op cares?

If the doctor’s advice is not duly followed, there may be some complications such as the formation of oedemas, infections or haematomas, which could even require a second surgical procedure thus postponing the patient’s recovery process.

Following the post-op recommendations does not guarantee the absence of complications, but it does reduce them to the minimum so it is essential to strictly stick to the medical instructions. If the patient has any doubt, do not hesitate to contact your doctor of medical centre.