With so many surgeries now performed under regional anesthesia, post-operative pain is much less. The first 48 hours can be the tough times. Often the regional anesthesia can last for 24 or more hours, making the first 48 hours a lot easier. Eventually, there is some pain after surgery, and pain medicines are used.
- A strong anti-inflammatory NSAID, ketorolac, can be used for the first few days, usually as standing doses
- A narcotic pain medicine, such as oxycodone, is added as needed
- Intermittent Tylenol can be added as well
For any lower leg surgery, chest-level elevation to decrease swelling is important for pain management as well. Less swelling usually means less pain