Surgical FAQs
We strive to keep patients well informed about conditions, options and care and minimize anxiety throughout that empowerment.
Our expert skill and knowledge provides a range of treatment capabilities and produce outcomes that improves patients’ quality of life.
When is surgery considered?
Dr. Dagam will consider non-surgical methods first and considere surgery only when necessary.
What medication can I take after surgery?
Most often you may continue taking prescribed medications as previously directed, however Dr. Dagam and his staff will discuss any medication changes with you before sending you home. This may include prescribing you a pain medication to help make you comfortable during your recovery.
If I have surgery, when can I expect to return to work/activities?
This will vary based on the type of surgery you have. We also will consider the type of work you do or activities you participate in. In most circumstances, moderate daily activity (especially walking) is recommended.
Can I drive after surgery?
This will vary depending on the patient, the type of surgery you had and your recovery process. In most cases, driving is discouraged for the first two to six weeks depending on the surgery. For some outpatient procedures, driving can be resumed once off of pain medications.
Will I need to wear a back brace or use a walker after surgery?
Dr. Dagam will determine prior to your surgery if you will need to have any durable medical equipment (back brace, cervical collar, walker, external bone growth stimulator) for your particular type of surgery.
Will I be able to go through metal detectors (airport security) if I have any hardware implanted during surgery?
Yes, you will be able to go through metal detectors without any problems.
What about having an MRI if I have any hardware implanted?
The type of material that spinal hardware is made of (usually titanium) should not interfere with ou having an MRI. Always be sure to inform the facility performing your MRI that you do indeed have hardware.
What things should I be looking for that would require an urgent post-operative appointment?
We encourage you to notify Dr. Dagam’s office at 414-488-1818 if you have:
- Increase redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness or drainage from your incision
- Flu like symptoms including a fever of greater than 101.5
- New weakness or change in neurological status
Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking is the most important thing you can do to help improve the success of your surgery. Nicotine prevents bone growth, putting you at risk for failed fusion. Also, smoking decreases blood circulation in potentially decreased wound healing and increased risk of infection.
Diabetes (or Blood Sugar) Control
Proper blood sugar control is critical to be eligible for surgery and for having a successful outcome. Nerves may become damaged by constant elevated blood sugar. Additionally, elevated blood sugar interferes with proper would healing and increases risk of infection. We often measure a patient’s long term blood sugar control with a Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) and look for values as close to normal as possible. Dr. Dagam will inform you what HbA1C is safe for surgery.
What Next?
“One thing that really surprised me after my past surgery, when I didn’t get to see Dr. Dagam afterwards, he personally called me the next day to see how I was doing. Definitely shows that he cares about his patients. I also love seeing the PAs and receptionist that work along side Dr. Dagam. They are all second to none!!!”
We listen and we empathize.