Depending on the type of operation you have, you will usually need to stay in hospital for between two and seven days.
After the procedure, you will be taken from the operating theatre to a recovery room, where you will come round from the anaesthesia under close supervision.
After this, you will be taken to your room where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home.
While you are in hospital a physiotherapist will help you exercise while you are in bed and then will be able to help you get up and down the stairs before you are discharged.
Pain relief
Your anaesthetist will prescribe painkillers after the operation. Suffering from pain could slow down your recovery, so please discuss any discomfort with your doctors or nurses.
We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.
Recovery time
You should gradually increase the amount of walking and sitting you do during the first month after your surgery. During this time you should avoid bending, lifting, twisting or stretching. Your surgeon will give advice that is specific to you about how soon you can return to work and leisure activities such as sport.
How your loved ones can help
Once you’re ready to be discharged from hospital, you’ll need to arrange a taxi, friend or family member to take you home as you won’t be able to drive. You need to follow your surgeon’s advice about driving. You shouldn’t drive until you are confident that you could perform an emergency stop without discomfort.
Looking after you
Even after you’ve left hospital, we’re still looking after you every step of the way.
Typically your consultant will want to see you after your treatment to see how you’re doing. You might also be seen by one of our physiotherapists.
On rare occasions, complications following back surgery can occur. If you experience any of these symptoms – infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots, numbness, loss of muscle control, pain or paralysis – call us straight away.
The chance of complications depends on the exact type of operation you are having and other factors such as your general health. We will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you have any questions or concerns, we’re ready to help.
