Post-Op Instructions: Robotic / Laparoscopic Kidney Surgery

Instructions for Care Following Robotic or Laparoscopic Kidney Surgery:

You have just undergone a major operation. The healing process takes time and we would like for you to observe the following instructions during your initial recovery. We have written this pamphlet for you to use as a reference during this initial healing phase.

Post-op Treatments and Instructions

(You typically will be discharged home on the second post-operative day.)

When you return home continue walking.

  • The walking will help you build strength. Gradually increase the amount of walking you do each day. Take planned rest periods during the day. The best gauge is your own body and how you feel. It is very important that you continue walking when you are discharged from the hospital. Not only will this build strength but will also aid in preventing blood clots from the legs.

Avoid bending

  • If you must pick something up, bend with your knees, not your waist: stoop to pick up the item.

Avoid heavy lifting.

  • (Greater than 5 pounds) Anything you need to brace yourself to pick up is too heavy. Also avoid strenuous activity.

Stairs should not be a problem.

  • Take them slowly at first. You may wish to group your activities, so that you do not have to make many trips up and down stairs during the first week you are home.

Driving should be avoided

  • Driving should be avoided for at least 4 weeks after surgery or until you are not taking pain medications or are pain free. Take breaks every couple hours if you are on extended trips. Get out of your car and walk around a bit.

Pain Medications

  • You will be given a prescription for Vicodin, but you should try to get by with Extra Strength Tylenol unless the pain is too much.
  • Do not drive any motorized vehicle, or sign any legal documents while you are taking pain medications. The medications may alter visual perception and impair judgment.

Bathing/taking a shower will be ok

  • Gently wash the incision with soap and water, rinse well, and pat dry. So do not take a tub bath until the incision is completely healed.

Diet:

  • A well balanced diet is encouraged to promote healing and good bowel function. Return to your normal fluid intake.

Avoid constipation

  • If you become constipated, there are alternatives to consider. Increase the roughage in your diet. Drink prune juice or orange juice. You can take an over the counter laxative of your choice. Colace will be prescribed when you are discharged. Drink 6-8 glasses of water per day.

Reasons to Call the Physician

  • Your incision becomes red or swollen
  • The skin around your incision is warmer than elsewhere and is slightly red
  • There is drainage from your incision
  • There is an opening in your incision
  • You are having difficulty passing urine or your urine output becomes less than it
    normally has been
  • There are chills or fever of 101 or more
  • Severe pain that is not relieved by pain medication

For Urgent or Emergent situations 24 hours a day, Call the office at (239)403-9503 or call Dr. Ornstein direct cell phone (239)218-5340

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