As you pointed out, tolerance to Vicodins builds up immediately and rapidly - after 20 or so they were useless. Why they don't just issue real codeine is unknown to me. We are screwed up here regarding pain relief, as if it's some moral issue.
Good luck to him - note: ibuprofin has been extremely effective in keeping the swelling in check on my bum wheel - better than aspirin. Watch out with Tylenol, >5 grams a day can lead to liver issues.