In this post, we’ll investigate the must-have supplies to make your home post pectus surgery recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Your surgeon will suggest how to take care of yourself post surgically at home, but it is still helpful to know what you should expect.

Add Some Fun to Your Recovery

Hey, let’s not overlook the fun part of recovery, shall we? Here are some feel-good items to keep you smiling during those early days:

Interesting Books

Get lost in a good story or learn something new with an intriguing book.

Crossword Puzzles

Exercise your brain and enjoy the satisfaction of solving those tricky clues.

Stimulating Games

Whether it's a classic board game or a challenging puzzle, gaming is a great way to pass the time and keep spirits high.

Tablet with Movies and Series

Transform your downtime into a cozy movie marathon or binge-watch your favorite series. It's like having a personal cinema right at home!

Supplies for Comfort and Safety at Home

Understanding what you'll need after your Nuss procedure is the first step to a comfortable recovery. Let's break down the essential supplies:

Wound Care: Keeping It Clean

First things first, keeping your surgical site clean and protected is vital for preventing infections. You'll need:

Sterile Dressings

Essential for covering and protecting the incision site.

Antiseptic Solutions

Use these to clean the area around the incision.

Adhesive Strips

These helps keep the gauzes in place.

A clean wound heals faster. Trust me, nothing ruins your recovery like a sudden infection scare!

Mobility Aids for Independent Recovery

After Nuss surgery, mobility can be a challenge. Having the right aids can prevent strain and injuries.

Walkers

Walkers provide stability and support for individuals who need to bear weight on both legs. They come in various styles.

Walkers are suitable for people with moderate to severe mobility limitations, such as the limitations after Nuss procedure, especially in the first week.

Reacher

This product is for picking up items from the floor or a high shelf.
During most stages of recovery, it may be unsafe for you to bend down to pick things up. 

Breathing Assistance

Breath work can aid in lung recovery and prevent complications.

Incentive Spirometer

This device helps you take deep breaths and keeps your lungs clear.

Breathing Exercises

Simple exercises can be very effective. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team.

People hate using the spirometer. It's a small device that helps to show if your lungs have limited capacity because of the compression of the sunken breastbone. Those deep breaths are crucial for lung health.

Nutrition Book

A balanced diet can speed up recovery and provide the energy needed to heal.

High-Protein Snacks and Meals

Protein aids in tissue repair.

Hydration

Keep yourself well-hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks.

Think of your body as a machine. It needs the right fuel to function properly.

Helpful Supplies for Home Treatment

Here's a quick list of additional essential items:

Seat Lift Chair

Helps you stand up without straining your incisions.

Bedside Commode

Convenient for nighttime use.

Disposable Under Pads

Protect your furniture and bedding in case you lose your bladder control which can happen after the surgery.

Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Soap

Crucial for infection prevention.

Easy-to-Make Meals

Stock up on nutritious, easy-to-prepare foods.

Extra Pillows

Helps you find the most comfortable sitting and sleeping positions. Experiment with various positions to find what works best for you. 

Post Surgery Pillows

These are specially designed for healing after surgery. They offer full-body support, including an upper body wedge and side pillows to prevent rolling. Ideal for patients recovering from the Nuss procedure.

Items That Are Accessible To Most

Comfort is key to a smooth recovery. Here are a few items that can help:

Pillows for Support

If you can’t afford a specialized pillow, you can use any pillow to find comfortable sitting and sleeping positions.

Recliner Chair

Ideal for comfortable positioning and getting in and out without much strain.

Comfy Clothing

Wear clothes that don’t irritate the incision site.

Conclusion

Recovering from a Nuss procedure can be overwhelming, but having the right supplies can make all the difference. Remember, you’re not alone.

Others have successfully passed this journey, and you can too!  

 Let’s empower others with pectus to recover confidently and comfortably at home by sharing your recovery story in the comments below.

For more tips and advice on managing pectus excavatum, be sure to visit my other blog posts. Thanks for reading!