Why Aftercare Is Important Following Coccygectomy

A coccygectomy surgery removes the unstable, dislocated, or broken coccyx. The coccyx is the small, triangular, tail-like bone near the anus composed of three to five smaller bones. Two to three parts of the coccyx form the end of the spine. A direct blow to the area can damage or break the coccyx. The blow may occur due to a bad accident, fall, or childbirth. Surgery is recommended after conservative treatment options such as rest, painkillers, physiotherapy, and steroid injections, have failed.

The Importance of Coccygectomy Aftercare

Coccygectomy aftercare requires careful attention to medication, follow-up visits, bathing and wound care, and physical activity.

Medication Aftercare

After the surgery, patients are given antibiotics, pain medication, and stool softeners to help them recover. Antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent or fight infections. It’s essential not to take antibiotics not directly prescribed by your health care provider to avoid complications. Stool softeners prevent constipation and should be taken only when directed by your healthcare provider or caregiver.

Follow-up visits

You will need to return for follow-ups to check your wounds, stitches, or drain removal. Some patients may need to return to get laxatives or enemas three to four days after the surgery. It’s important to stay proactive about your follow-up to prevent infections or complications that may extend your recovery time.

Wound care and bath

Some patients require caregivers’ help to bathe and treat wounds safely. Wounds must stay dry while bathing to avoid infection or irritation. You may need to take a sitz bath, meaning you soak your lower body in warm water for a few minutes.

Physical Activity

While recovering, patients should avoid directly sitting on hard and solid surfaces. Keep the pressure off the area by sitting on a ring or donut-shape cushion to avoid pain. You may need to use the ring or donut for up to six weeks after the surgery. To avoid pulling on stitches or wounds, make sure to be careful about the amount of movement you perform, especially during the first few days of surgery. A caregiver can help you navigate will you recover.

Things to Watch out for While Recovering

Everyone wants to have their recovery run smoothly with no extra complications. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. If you experience any of the following while recovering, you should seek medical attention.

• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Incisions coming apart
• Stitches breaking
• Itchy or swollen skin
• Rash
• Chest pain
• Bandage soaked with blood
• Coughing up blood
• Wound filled with pus, developing a bad smell, or draining blood
• Lightheaded
• Arms or legs becoming swollen

While recovering from a coccygectomy, it’s beneficial to have a caregiver or loved one nearby in case of emergencies.

Consult our Spine Specialists at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery

Experiencing any form of pain in our backs or necks can be debilitating if not treated or accurately diagnosed. At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, our knowledgeable spine specialists are highly trained in a range of spinal conditions allowing them to expertly create a personalized treatment plan to meet our clients’ needs. Our medical team offers cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive treatment plans for our patients to regain their quality of life with less recovery time. Complete our contact form or call (855) 853-6542 to schedule an appointment.