Concerns After Dog Accident: Impact on Leg Fracture Recovery

Two weeks after a tibial fracture, the wound site was stepped on by a dog?

My mother is 50 years old.
Half a month ago, she fell and fractured one of the larger bones in her right calf and one of the smaller bones near her ankle (likely the tibia and fibula).
She has undergone surgery and has since returned home to recover.
Her calf is in a cast, which has not been removed, and she is practicing walking.
During a follow-up appointment today to observe her wound, the doctor said her recovery is going well.
However, this afternoon, while walking her dog, a 7 kg Shiba Inu, the dog jumped onto her injured leg while she was resting on the couch, causing her significant pain.
We are concerned about whether this incident will affect her wound healing, as she is still in the recovery phase.

If the purpose of the cast is to stabilize the injury, why does she still feel pain in the area of the wound when it is touched? Our biggest concern is whether this will impact her recovery and if the internal screws might shift.
If there is an impact, are there any remedial options for the wound? Thank you, doctor, for your assistance.

Niming, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/16

Dr. Wang Jiacheng reply Orthopedics

1.
It is normal to experience pain at the surgical site shortly after the procedure.

2.
Displacement is only likely if there was significant force applied.
If you are concerned, you can visit the hospital for an X-ray to confirm.

Reply Date: 2022/08/16

More Info

It sounds like your mother has been through a challenging recovery process after her leg fractures. Given that she is in the healing phase following surgery for her tibia and fibula fractures, it is understandable to be concerned about any potential impacts on her recovery, especially after an incident involving her dog.

First, let's address the concern regarding the pain she experienced when the dog jumped on her leg. Pain in the area of a fracture, even when it is immobilized in a cast, can occur for several reasons. The cast serves to stabilize the broken bones and limit movement, which is crucial for healing. However, the surrounding tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and nerves, can still be sensitive and may react to pressure or impact. This sensitivity can lead to pain even if the fracture itself is stable.

The fact that your mother's doctor indicated that her recovery is progressing well is a positive sign. However, it is essential to monitor her symptoms closely. If she experiences increased pain, swelling, or any changes in her ability to move her leg, it would be prudent to consult her orthopedic surgeon. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray, to ensure that the bones remain properly aligned and that there are no complications such as displacement of the hardware (screws or plates) used during surgery.

Regarding your concern about the impact of the dog jumping on her leg affecting the healing process, it is important to note that while the cast provides significant protection, it is not entirely impervious to all forces. A sudden impact could potentially disrupt the healing process, especially if the force was significant. However, if the cast remains intact and there are no signs of swelling or deformity, it is likely that the fracture site is still stable.

In terms of recovery, the healing of bone fractures typically follows a predictable timeline, but it can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the fracture, the patient's age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Your mother should continue to follow her doctor's advice regarding weight-bearing activities and physical therapy. Gradual, supervised rehabilitation exercises can help restore strength and mobility without compromising the healing process.

If there are concerns about the cast's integrity or the possibility of hardware displacement, the orthopedic team may consider additional imaging or even a follow-up appointment to assess the situation. In some cases, if there is a concern about healing, they may recommend additional interventions, such as physical therapy or modified activity levels.

In summary, while the incident with the dog is concerning, it does not necessarily mean that your mother's recovery will be adversely affected, especially if she is not experiencing significant changes in her symptoms. It is crucial to maintain open communication with her healthcare providers and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly. They are best equipped to evaluate her condition and provide guidance on the next steps in her recovery journey.

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