Is It Normal to Feel a Bump Between the Thigh and Pelvis After Surgery?

The reason you feel a bony protrusion between your pelvis and thigh after recently having a steel rod removed from your femur could be due to several factors. It may be related to the healing process, changes in bone structure, or muscle atrophy in the surrounding area. It's important to consult with your orthopedic surgeon or healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation to determine the exact cause and ensure proper recovery?

I had a steel rod removed from my femur on February 17, after having it for more than a year and a half.
Since the surgery, I feel a bump between my pelvis and thigh even when using crutches.
Is this normal, especially since I haven't had my stitches removed yet?

Mars, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/25

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics

Hello Mr.
Mars, due to the lack of X-rays and physical examinations, it is difficult to make a diagnosis.
I recommend that you ask the attending surgeon during your follow-up appointment!

Reply Date: 2020/02/25

More Info

After undergoing surgery, particularly one involving the removal of a steel rod from the femur, it is not uncommon to experience various sensations and changes in the area surrounding the surgical site. The feeling of a bump or a protrusion between the thigh and pelvis can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.

Firstly, post-surgical swelling is a common occurrence. When tissues are cut during surgery, the body responds with inflammation, which can lead to swelling in the surrounding areas. This swelling may create a sensation of a bump or fullness in the area between the thigh and pelvis. It is essential to monitor this swelling; if it is accompanied by redness, warmth, or significant pain, it could indicate an infection or other complications that would require medical attention.

Secondly, the sensation of a bump could also be related to the healing of the muscles and connective tissues. After surgery, the muscles and tissues may take time to heal and realign properly. Scar tissue formation is another factor that can contribute to the feeling of a bump. Scar tissue can be denser than the surrounding tissue, leading to a noticeable difference in texture or firmness in the area. This is particularly true if the surgery involved significant manipulation of the muscles or if there was a considerable amount of tissue removed.

Additionally, the presence of hardware, such as screws or plates, used to stabilize the bone during the healing process, can also contribute to a feeling of a bump. If any hardware remains in place, it may be palpable under the skin, especially if the surrounding soft tissue is still healing.

It is also important to consider the role of muscle tension and spasm in the area. After surgery, muscles may become tense or spasm as they adjust to changes in movement and weight-bearing. This can create a sensation of tightness or a bump in the region.

Since you mentioned that you are still awaiting suture removal, it is crucial to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions closely. If the bump persists or if you experience increased pain, changes in sensation, or any other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, to assess the area and ensure that the healing process is progressing appropriately.

In summary, while it is not unusual to feel a bump between the thigh and pelvis after surgery, especially following the removal of hardware, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If you have any concerns or if the symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Your recovery is paramount, and addressing any issues early can help ensure a smoother healing process.

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