Post-Fracture Recovery: Managing Swelling and Blood Tests

Fracture-related issues?

Hello, doctor.
My family member had surgery for a right ankle fracture in October, and it has been about three months since then.
The doctor told her that she can gradually stop using the crutches to walk, but her foot is still swollen, and it becomes more swollen after walking.
Is it still advisable for her to stop using the crutches? Would soaking her foot in warm water help? Additionally, I would like to ask the doctor about the blood tests that were done during her hospitalization before the surgery.
What did those tests include? Did they include liver and gallbladder function tests? Thank you for your response.

You Ren Yi Wen De Ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/10

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

It is normal for swelling to increase when you first start walking, as the injured area has poor blood circulation.
Initially, when you begin to move, blood flow increases, leading to swelling.
With more activity, your body will gradually adapt.
Applying heat and elevating your foot can be helpful.
Preoperative examinations typically include liver function tests, but the specifics may vary between hospitals.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2021/01/10

More Info

Post-fracture recovery can be a complex process, and it’s essential to understand the various factors that contribute to healing, including swelling management and the significance of blood tests performed before surgery.

Firstly, regarding the swelling in your family member's ankle, it is not uncommon for swelling to persist for several months after a fracture, especially following surgical intervention. The body goes through a natural healing process that can involve inflammation, which may lead to swelling. When weight is placed on the injured ankle, it can exacerbate this swelling due to increased blood flow and fluid accumulation in the area.
It is crucial to follow the advice of the treating physician regarding the use of crutches. If the doctor has advised that your family member can gradually start walking without crutches, it is likely based on their assessment of healing progress. However, if the swelling significantly increases with weight-bearing activities, it may be wise to continue using crutches until the swelling subsides and the ankle regains strength.
Soaking the ankle in warm water can provide temporary relief and may help with circulation, but it is essential to ensure that the water is not too hot, as excessive heat can increase swelling. Gentle elevation of the leg can also help reduce swelling by promoting fluid drainage away from the injured area.
Now, regarding the blood tests conducted prior to surgery, these tests are typically performed to assess the overall health of the patient and to ensure that they are fit for surgery. Common tests include a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia or infection, electrolyte levels to assess kidney function, and liver function tests to evaluate the health of the liver.
Liver function tests often include measurements of enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as bilirubin levels. These tests help identify any underlying liver issues that could complicate surgery or recovery. While not every pre-operative panel will include liver function tests, they are standard practice, especially in patients with a history of liver disease or other risk factors.

In summary, it is essential to monitor the swelling in your family member's ankle and to follow the physician's guidance regarding weight-bearing activities. If the swelling persists or worsens, it may be necessary to consult the doctor for further evaluation. Additionally, the pre-operative blood tests serve to ensure that the patient is in good health for surgery, and they may include liver function tests among other assessments. Always feel free to ask the healthcare provider for clarification on any tests performed and their implications for recovery.

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