Patients are generally maintained on bedrest for several hours following the surgical procedure. They are typically advanced to ambulation on the day of surgery. Patients are usually advanced to a regular diet on a gradual basis and IV fluids are discontinued when they are able to accept liquids. Most patients are able to swallow liquids with minimal difficulty but may have trouble with solids for a short time. IV antibiotics are usually given pre-operatively and for 24 hours post-operatively. If the patient is independent with ambulation, able to tolerate a regular diet, afebrile and able to void they are generally discharged on the day following surgery. Patients may occasionally be discharged on the day of surgery. Patients are generally placed in a rigid collar after surgery. The collar can be removed in most cases for showering but should be worn at all times otherwise. Use of a collar may be optional in cases where instrumentation is used. Patients are advised at the time of discharge to avoid vigorous activities. Patients are typically prescribed pain medication to be taken by mouth as needed and occasionally anti-inflammatory medication for residual nerve root swelling and irritation.

Patients are generally advised to refrain from getting the incision wet for three days post-operatively. At that time they may shower. It is generally advisable to avoid submerging the incision in a tub or pool for at least one-week.

Follow-up examinations are typically conducted at one week, one month, three months, 6 months and 1 year post-operatively.

At approximately 2 months post-operatively patients are referred for physical therapy and the collar discontinued. This includes a graduated course of upper extremity and cervical flexibility, strengthening, and instructions on body mechanics and postural alignment. Patients are generally advised to increase their recreational and daily activities commensurate with their progress at physical therapy. Fusion will typically take 4-6 months to develop and patients should restrict activity during this time.