Tips for coccyx surgery

Before surgery

Make sure your surgeon is experienced with this operation.
Ask about antibiotics to avoid wound infection.
To reduce the risk of infection, use an antimicrobial skin cleanser such as Hibiscrub as a shower gel for two weeks before and after surgery.
To avoid constipation, take a stool softener two weeks before and after surgery.
Stop taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen) for two weeks before and after surgery, to reduce the chances of a hematoma. A hematoma (or haematoma) is a pool of blood outside of a blood vessel, and one occasionally forms after surgery.
Smoking delays wound healing, so stop before the operation.

Stay positive, be patient.
Give yourself time to recover, don't try to rush things.
Wear loose comfortable clothes.
Walk as soon and as much as possible. Swim when the wound has healed.
If your wound leaks, use an incontinence pad to protect the mattress.
Get a raised toilet seat.
When going to the toilet, wipe your bottom from back to front, to avoid contaminating the wound.
Sleep alone, your own movements hurt much less than someone else's.
Wear silk pyjamas or use satin sheets as they make it easier to turn over.
Get a grabber to help you pick things up without bending too much.
If possible, avoid using stairs.

These tips are based on suggestions by Brandie, Jonas, Paige, Anne, Sarah, Carol and John Hardy, surgeon

Updated 2022-07-24