Rotator Cuff Repair.pdf

POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR SHOULDER – ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR:

Wound care: Loosen bandage if swelling or numbness occurs, remove tape and gauze 48 hours after surgery, and keep BandGrip dry when showering.
Medications: Take prescription pain medication as needed, Zofran for nausea, and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and pain.
Ice therapy: Use ice machine as directed for the first 2-3 days, and then as needed.
Activity: Wear sling at all times except for personal hygiene, wardrobe changes, and exercises, and avoid activities that increase shoulder pain.
Exercise: Begin exercises 3 times a day starting the day after surgery, including wrist flexion/extension, elbow flexion/extension, and pendulum swings.
Diet: Start with clear liquids and light foods, and progress to normal diet as tolerated.
Follow-up care: Someone from Dr. Cole's team will call to address questions or concerns, and initial postoperative visit will be a telemedicine PA visit 7-14 days from surgery.
Emergencies: Contact Dr. Cole's practice hotline at 312-243-4244 for unrelenting pain, fever, continuous drainage or bleeding, difficulty breathing, or excessive nausea/vomiting.