After the infusion runs out and sensation in your arm and shoulder is back to normal, you or your caretaker should be able to peel off the large bandage keeping the catheter in place. There are no stitches to keep the catheter in place, so it should come right out. You will also receive detailed instructions on taking the catheter out before your discharge.

Depending on the size of the bag of numbing medicine, it may take two to three (2-3) days to give all the medication.

You should be provided with a Patient Guideline prior to discharge (it may be in your carry case).

Patients experience different levels of pain. The nerve block works with other medications or therapies your doctor will prescribe to manage your pain after surgery. With the nerve block, you won’t need as many narcotics and will have better pain relief than with narcotics alone. You should also take any other pain medicine as instructed by your doctor.

Penn Orthopaedics provides a 24-hour acute pain service that can be reached at 215-776-5694. You should call your doctor for all medical questions or dial 911 for an emergency.