Caring for your BCIR properly after surgery is important to ensure the success of the procedure and reduce the risk of complications. Below is some information about BCIR recovery and aftercare.
Immediately following the BCIR procedure, you will need to stay in the hospital for a while. In most cases, Dr. Schiller’s patients remain in the hospital for approximately two weeks. This is shorter than the hospital stay required by many other ostomy surgeons.
While you are in the hospital, your surgeon will visit you on a daily basis to oversee the healing process and watch for any signs of a complication. You will also learn how to use and care for your BCIR while you are in the hospital. You will likely receive antibiotics to prevent infection, as well as pain medication during this time. Dr. Schiller provides all of his patients with a private room that includes an extra bed in case someone wishes to stay with the patient as he or she recovers.
After you are discharged from the hospital, you will be able to return home. Many patients come from out-of-town and must fly home, but you will be well enough for air travel by the time you are discharged. At this point, you should also feel well enough to be able to care for yourself after you get back home. Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment before you leave the hospital. If you live far from the hospital, your first few follow-up appointments may be conducted by telephone.
Within four to six weeks of the surgery, you should be able to return to many of your usual non-strenuous activities. You should be able to return to most strenuous activities within 12 weeks. However, always check with your doctor before increasing your activity level after the BCIR procedure.
If you are interested in learning more about the BCIR procedure and/or the recovery process, please contact Dr. Don Schiller to schedule a consultation today.