On discharge home you will receive a follow up appointment to come back to the Chest Wall Clinic in 2-3 weeks. At this appointment you will be reviewed by the Surgeons, Physiotherapy and the Pain Team.

At home we would encourage you to continue with your breathing and any postural exercises and take your incentive spirometer to your next clinic appointment.

It is important to keep active on discharge and we would encourage daily walks progressing duration or distance each day.

If you start to feel unwell, have any difficulty with your breathing, significant discomfort or have any problems with your wounds please attend the Emergency Department at the Royal Hospital for Children.

The chest wall team will discuss when you are able to return to normal activities and sport. The following is a guide: 

• Walking/static exercise bike:  Immediately
• Raising arms above shoulders: 3 weeks
• Lying on side: 6 weeks 
• Return to school/ college/work : 6 weeks
• Twisting of spine: 3 months
• Pushing up from chair with arms: 3 months
• Pushing/pulling/lifting heavy objects or bags: 3 months 
• Gentle exercise (e.g. jogging, cycling, swimming): 3 months
• Contact/competitive sport (e.g. football, rugby, tennis): 6 months