Dr Corman,
I am 5 days postop after my posterior fusion of C6-7. This procedure has been a lot more painful than the ACDF. They released me the same day last Friday. I stayed overnight for the ACDF with the same surgeon who I respect greatly.
I am having trouble getting adequate paint meds for recovery. I was sent home with 20 pills which ran out Monday. He did add Vistaril and Flexeril which helped a little over the weekend. I do well with hydrocodone and haven’t been on any pain meds since my ACDF in 2016. Monday he wrote for 18 hydrocodone one tablet every 6 to 8 hours. He did allow me to take two tablets when I asked. Now I am out of pain meds again tomorrow. I know times have changed but I have never had an issue having enough medication until my first postop visit which will be 3-25.Am I being reasonable? I just want to be comfortable enough to move around, walk, etc with tolerable pain. Should I ask to please write for enough meds until my first postop visit? What is the best way to handle asking for more pain medication?