Postoperative Problems

Prevention

You may be able to prevent problems after surgery by taking steps beforehand to improve your health.

• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products. Complications involving the lungs, such as pneumonia and a collapsed lung, are more likely to occur in smokers. Infections are more common in people who use tobacco products because of reduced blood flow and from having more mucus stuck in the airways. For more information, see the topic Quitting Smoking.
• Maintain a healthy body weight. Problems with increased abdominal pressure, complications involving the lungs, and infection occur more frequently in people who are overweight. For more information, see the topic Weight Management.
• Practice deep breathing exercises before surgery.
• If possible, be active before your surgery to increase your fitness level. For more information, see the topic Fitness.
• Eat a balanced diet. Make an appointment with a dietitian if you need help with menu planning. For more information, see the topic Healthy Eating.

Be sure to follow all of your surgeon's instructions after surgery to prevent problems. You may be instructed to:

• Drink plenty of fluids. This can help prevent problems such as dehydration and constipation.
• Sit up, cough, and breathe deeply to expand your lungs and help prevent breathing problems, such as pneumonia.
• Walk as soon and as often as your surgeon recommends. Early activity helps prevent complications. Ask your surgeon how soon you can expect to get out of bed, sit in a chair, and walk. Walking increases circulation to your legs and helps prevent problems, such as blood clots. Walking also helps prevent constipation.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: December 9, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.