Discharge Information: Post Neck Surgery

Dear Patient/Carer:

Please read this document carefully as it contains important information that complements the
instructions given by your MEG ENT Specialist during your recent surgical admission.

Medications:

  • Pain Management:
    • You should receive analgesics and instructions (e.g. Paracetamol, oxycodone) prior to your discharge from hospital.
    • Use as directed.
  • Antibiotics:
    • Oral Antibiotics may be prescribed on your discharge from Hospital
    • You will be advised by your MEG ENT Specialist.
  • Regular Medications:
    • Do not recommence Aspirin, Nurofen, Plavix, Fish Oil, etc. for at least 2 weeks after surgery or as instructed by your MEG ENT Specialist.

Wound Care:

  • Keep the wound clean and dry.
  • Try to protect the wound from water for the first 72 hours.
  • You may clean the area around the wound with a clean towel soaked in warm water.
  • If you have stitches or skin clips these will need to be removed and you will be instructed upon discharge as to when and where they can be removed.

Bleeding:

  • It is uncommon to have bleeding from the wound site after discharge from hospital.
  • If you encounter any bleeding, swelling or redness, with increasing pain and pressure from the wound, you should immediately contact your doctor or the hospital emergency department.

Diet:

  • Generally there are no post-operative dietary restrictions, though your MEG ENT specialist may suggest avoiding hot foods, or a softened diet if you have had an associated intra-oral surgery.

Return to Normal Activities:

  • You will usually require 2 weeks leave from work for full recovery.
  • First 72 hours:
    • Avoid hot showers and saunas for 3 days
  • Week 1-2 post op:
    • Refrain from vigorous activity for 2 weeks to reduce the chance of bleeding.

Attend your nearest Emergency Department or Local GP Clinic if:

  • You experience bleeding or sudden increase in bruising or pressure.
  • You have increasing pain, and/or discharge.
  • You have a fever or feel increasingly unwell.

On your Post-operative Appointment:

  • Your MEG ENT Specialist will remove any non-dissolvable sutures at the first post-operative review, at 2-3 weeks after surgery.

We will confirm the time and date of your post-operative appointment soon. Do not hesitate to
contact us if you require any further information regarding these instructions.

Download PDF