General, Minimally Invasive & Thoracic Surgery

Instructions for the Patient after Pectus Bar Removal

DRESSING:

The patient will have:

• A white gauze dressing(s) covered by a clear plastic (Tegaderm®) – Remove this dressing 3 days after surgery. Beneath the gauze dressing(s) are small white bandages (Steri-strips®) - These will usually fall off in 1-3 weeks.

STITCHES:

 Stitches hold the incision together.

• They are under the skin; they do not need to be removed, the body will absorb them.

SHOWERING:

• Remove the dressing(s) 3 days after surgery.  You may shower with the dressing is in place.  Pat the site dry after showering.  You may continue showering normally once the dressing has been removed; the Steri-strips may get wet.

ACTIVITY:

• You may resume normal activities without restriction as you become more comfortable after surgery.
• Please call the office immediately if you develop shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

DIET:

• You can resume a regular diet. 
• If you go home the same day of surgery and vomiting occurs, do not eat or drink for 2 hours.   Then try small amounts of clear liquids or half strength juice until you do not vomit any more. Then slowly start a normal diet.  If you continue to vomit please call the office.

PAIN:

• Your may have a prescription for pain medication such as Tylenol® with Codeine or Percocet. If the incision(s) remain uncomfortable use the prescription medication according to instructions.
• Your may take Tylenol® (acetaminophen) or Motrin® (ibuprofen) for discomfort if the pain is mild.

Please call the office if you develop any of the following

• Fever > 101
• Redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision sites
• Pain despite the prescription medication