If you are anticipating an orthopedic surgical procedure, then you will meet with your surgeon for your preoperative appointment. There, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and talk to you about what you can expect during your recovery. Here are some signs and symptoms of a postoperative infection your orthopedic doctor in Rockwall, TX, may tell you to watch out for, especially if you are a diabetic.
Local Infection
Local symptoms of an orthopedic surgery postoperative infection include redness and inflammation around your surgical site. Increased pain, bleeding, or excessive drainage from the incision may also indicate the presence of an infection. Your incision and its surrounding areas may also feel warmer than usual and the incision may also have an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your orthopedic doctor in Rockwall, TX, as soon as possible because oral antibiotic therapy will need to be started promptly.
Systemic Infection
In addition to local symptoms, you may also develop systemic symptoms of a postoperative infection after your surgery. These may include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. You may also experience muscle pain, fatigue, and a body-wide rash. While these symptoms may mimic other health conditions, your surgeon will need to examine you to make sure that they are not related to your surgery. If your symptoms are unrelated to your orthopedic procedure, your surgeon will refer you back to your family physician for further evaluation.
To schedule an appointment with an orthopedic physician, call Lake Pointe Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine or visit the website at https://lportho.com
