Recovery Time and Pain After Femoral Bone Grafting Surgery

Femoral healing

Doctor, 😊 I was supposed to have a follow-up appointment today, but I misread the time and rescheduled it for the 17th.
😓 I forgot to mention one thing during my last inquiry: I underwent a femoral decompression surgery with artificial bone graft.
From the first day post-surgery until the fifth day, my knee experienced significant soreness, which slightly improved by the twelfth day.
However, I can only walk within a distance of 10 meters.
The pain is located in my left leg, from above the knee to the hip, on the posterior and inner side, and it feels unbearable.
I also cannot lift my left leg without experiencing pain and soreness.

I would like to know if this reaction is considered normal.
Before the surgery, I frequently experienced soreness in my knee, but post-surgery, the soreness persisted for five days, and it wasn't until the tenth day that the discomfort slightly decreased.
I would appreciate any additional advice.
I plan to discuss this further with my attending physician on the 17th, but given that my primary doctor is only in their thirties, I feel they may lack sufficient clinical experience.
Ultimately, I need to make informed decisions about my treatment.
If there are any errors in my treatment, I would appreciate your recommendations.
Additionally, how long does it typically take for the femoral artificial bone graft decompression surgery to heal?

Ahan, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/14

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Bone healing typically occurs within 6 to 12 weeks, but whether it heals or not depends on many factors.
It is best to ask the attending physician during the follow-up appointment.
The success rate of decompression for avascular necrosis of the femoral head is not 100%, so continued monitoring is necessary.

Reply Date: 2022/06/14

More Info

After undergoing femoral bone grafting surgery, it is common to experience a range of symptoms, including pain and discomfort, especially in the initial days following the procedure. Your description of pain in the knee, hip, and inner thigh, along with difficulty in walking and lifting your leg, is not unusual. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some insights into the recovery process.

1. Pain and Discomfort Post-Surgery: It is typical to experience significant pain after femoral bone grafting surgery. The pain you are feeling, especially in the knee and hip area, can be attributed to several factors:
- Surgical Trauma: The surgery itself causes trauma to the surrounding tissues, which can lead to inflammation and pain.

- Bone Healing: The process of bone healing can be painful, particularly as the body begins to integrate the graft material and regenerate new bone tissue.

- Muscle Weakness: Post-surgery, the muscles around the knee and hip may weaken due to disuse, leading to discomfort when trying to move or bear weight.

2. Timeline for Recovery: Generally, the recovery timeline for femoral bone grafting can vary based on individual factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of the surgery. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Initial Recovery: The first few days to weeks post-surgery are often the most painful. It is common for pain to gradually decrease over the first two weeks, as you have noted.

- Functional Recovery: Most patients can expect to see significant improvement in pain and mobility within 6 to 12 weeks. However, complete healing of the bone can take several months, often around 3 to 6 months, depending on the individual’s healing capacity and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: Engaging in physical therapy is crucial for recovery. A physical therapist can help you with:
- Strengthening Exercises: To combat muscle atrophy and improve strength in the affected leg.

- Range of Motion Exercises: To help regain mobility in the knee and hip joints.

- Pain Management Techniques: Such as modalities like ice, heat, or electrical stimulation to alleviate discomfort.

4. When to Seek Further Medical Advice: If your pain persists or worsens, or if you experience new symptoms such as swelling, redness, or fever, it is essential to consult your orthopedic surgeon. They can assess whether there are any complications, such as infection or issues with the graft.

5. Discussion with Your Surgeon: It’s great that you have a follow-up appointment scheduled. Prepare a list of your symptoms and concerns to discuss with your surgeon. They can provide personalized insights based on your specific case and may adjust your rehabilitation plan as necessary.

In summary, while the pain and limitations you are experiencing are common after femoral bone grafting surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and engage in a structured rehabilitation program. Recovery takes time, and it’s important to be patient with your body as it heals. Your proactive approach in seeking advice and discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider will be beneficial in your recovery journey.

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