Laryngoscopy Discharge Instructions

Specialized scopes were used to exam your throat and voice box. Any abnormalities were biopsied and specimens were sent to pathology for evaluation. Results will be discussed when finalized, in about 7-14 days.

After anesthesia

Review any post anesthesia instructions.
Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours or while taking pain medication.
Do not consume alcohol, tranquilizers, sleeping medications or any non-prescribed medication for 24 hours.
Do not make important decisions, sign any important papers, or use internet for the next 24 hours.
You should have someone with you at home for 24 hours.

General Instructions

Expect a mild sore throat for approximately 2-4 days.
A temperature of 99 to 100 degrees for the first few days is normal. Call if it rises above 101 degrees for 24 hours.
It is normal to have streaks of blood in mucous with coughing. Please call if you experience excessive bleeding or clots from the throat.

Pain

Most patients are sent home with a narcotic pain medication. Take this as needed and as directed.
It is common that acetaminophen and ibuprofen are adequate for the pain. Acetaminophen can be started right after the procedure, but the ibuprofen should be started the next day. You can alternate between these medications.

The maximum dose of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period is 3000 mg.
The maximum dose of ibuprofen in a 24-hour period is 2400 mg.

It is always best to taper narcotics as soon as possible if possible due to side effects: nausea and vomiting, headaches, itching, constipation, drowsiness, cognitive effects, and the addiction potential.

Activity

It is best to resume normal activity as soon as possible. There are no restrictions.
You need to be up and around for daily activities. It is OK to lie down when tired but refrain from staying in bed for extended periods during the day. Lack of moving around increases the risks of blood clots in the legs and pneumonia.

Diet

There are no dietary restrictions. It is normal to have a sore throat. You can eat whatever is comfortable. Sore throat lozenges can be used to help the discomfort. The other pain medications will also help.

Constipation

Constipation after surgery is very common. It is caused by the anesthetic and narcotics. It is very important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids. It can be prevented with stool softeners (Metamucil, Citrucel, Colace) or laxatives (MiraLax). These are over-the-counter and do not need a prescription. Use as directed on the packaging.

Precautions and expectations

Watch for areas of swelling and pain. Sore throat is normal.
It is normal to have streaks of blood in mucous with coughing. Please call if you experience excessive bleeding or clots from the throat.
Call with any difficulty breathing. If you feel that there is difficult breathing, go to the Emergency Room or call 911.

When to call your doctor

Nausea: If nausea or vomiting continues beyond the day of surgery, anti-nausea medications or a change in pain medication may be needed.
Fever: 101F degrees F (38.5 deg C) or above may require increasing fluid intake or the need for antibiotics.
Dehydration: Drinking adequate fluids is essential to recovery, call if patient is not drinking enough.
Bleeding: Call the surgeon’s office if significant bleeding occurs. This may look like bloody drainage, significant swelling at the operative site, or both. Seek medical attention immediately if you have trouble swallowing, talking, or breathing.
Swelling & Pain: Call for excessive swelling and pain not responding to pain meds
Difficulty urinating If no urine in more than 6 hours, seek help at an emergency department.

Note: Some pain medications require a written prescription at the pharmacy, so call for refills before you run out of medication.

For questions, concerns, medications, or emergencies, call our office day or night.

Dr. Wolfe – (206) 838-8345

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