Vocal Cord Surgery Post-Operative Instructions

For the next 24 hours:

Avoid use of your voice for at least 24 hours. Your physician will advise you on the progression of speech after this.

Avoid coughing, yelling or singing.

Take pain medication as prescribed, this may also be used for symptoms of cough.

Advance diet as tolerated, avoid spicy foods, acidic foods or caffeinated products.

If previously recommended, begin reflux medications.

Avoid strenuous activity for one week, and rest on the day of surgery.

Make sure a responsible adult is with you for the first 24hours.

Diet:

Resume regular diet avoiding spicy foods, acidic foods or caffeinated products.

Advance diet slowly, begin with liquids.

Special instructions:

Schedule followup appointments 10-14 days after surgery to review pathology.

Notify physician if you develop shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing.

Do not advance vocal activities until instructed by her physician.

Do not begin speech therapy until instructed by your physician.

Do not drive or operate machinery

Do not consume alcohol

Avoid making critical legal decisions

Contact your physician for fever greater than 101°F, pain not relieved by medications, persistent nausea or vomiting, inability to urinate, or excessive bleeding.

Contact 911 for shortness of breath, chest pain, loss of vision, double vision or loss of consciousness