Postoperative Discharge

“Postoperative discharge” refers to the process by which a patient is released from the hospital or surgical facility after undergoing a surgical procedure. This discharge typically occurs after the patient has recovered sufficiently from the surgery and is considered stable enough to continue their recovery at home. Here's an overview of the postoperative discharge process:

Assessment of the Patient: Before discharging a patient, the medical team will assess the patient's condition to ensure they are stable and ready to leave the hospital. This assessment includes checking vital signs, wound condition, pain management, and overall recovery progress.

Patient Education: Patients and their caregivers are provided with detailed instructions on postoperative care. This may include information on medication management, wound care, dietary restrictions, and activity limitations. Patients must understand how to care for themselves at home to promote a smooth recovery.

Pain Management: Adequate pain management is crucial after surgery. Patients are often prescribed pain medications and given instructions on how to take them. Patients need to follow these instructions carefully and report any severe or unusual pain to their healthcare provider.

Follow-Up Appointments: Patients are typically scheduled for follow-up appointments with their surgeon or healthcare provider. These appointments are essential for monitoring the progress of the surgical site, checking for complications, and making any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Transportation: In many cases, patients are not allowed to drive immediately after surgery due to the effects of anesthesia or pain medications. Arrangements for transportation home should be made in advance, such as having a family member or friend available to pick them up.

Recovery at Home: Once discharged, the patient will continue their recovery at home. This may involve adhering to dietary restrictions, managing pain, performing exercises or physical therapy as prescribed, and keeping the surgical site clean and dry.

Emergency Contact Information: Patients are typically provided with emergency contact information for their healthcare provider in case of any unexpected complications or concerns.

Recovery Timeline: The length of the recovery period varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors. Patients should be aware of the expected timeline for their recovery and be prepared for potential challenges along the way.

Monitoring for Complications: Patients and their caregivers should monitor for signs of complications, such as infection, excessive bleeding, or worsening symptoms. If any concerning symptoms arise, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Emotional Support: Surgery and the recovery process can be emotionally challenging. Patients should have access to emotional support from family, friends, or support groups to help them cope with any anxiety or stress.

Postoperative discharge is a critical phase of the surgical process, as it marks the transition from the hospital to home care. Ensuring that patients and their caregivers have the necessary information and resources for a safe and successful recovery is essential for optimal outcomes.

Acute needs must be considered following Adult Spinal Deformity surgery, however, matched analysis comparing 30-day hospital readmissions, 90-day return to surgery, postoperative complications, and PROs demonstrated minimal benefit for NON, REHAB, or SNF versus HOME at 1-year and 2-year follow-up, questioning the risk and cost/benefits of routine use of non-home discharge ¹⁾.