Post-Surgery Concerns After Pelvic Fracture: What to Expect

Postoperative Issues Following Pelvic Fracture Surgery

Hello, Doctor.
Last month, I suffered a left pelvic fracture due to a car accident.
About a week before the surgery, the hospital performed pelvic traction on me.
I had surgery where I opted for the implantation of a steel plate and two bone screws at my own expense.
It has been a little over a month since the surgery, and my rehabilitation is going well.
I can fully extend and bend my knee beyond 120 degrees.
However, in the past few days, I've started experiencing numbness and swelling in my left foot.
Initially, it was more noticeable before showering and at bedtime, but now it has become a constant sensation throughout the day.
I read online that certain exercises might help, but the results have been poor, and I feel more pain upon waking up.

Currently, I am using a walker shaped like the letter "M," and I can walk relatively normally with it.
However, when I try to take a few steps without it, the limping in my left foot is quite pronounced.
I would like to ask you: Is it normal to experience numbness and swelling in my foot? Will the numbness improve over time as I recover from the surgery? Is the limping in my left foot due to insufficient muscle strength, and will I be able to walk normally in the future? Additionally, when performing more challenging rehabilitation exercises, I feel a foreign sensation in my left pelvis and thigh.
Do you recommend that I have the implanted steel plate and bone screws removed in the future?

Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/27

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
There may be issues related to nerve injury, and poor circulation is also a possibility.

2.
Improvement is also possible.

3.
Whether the plate should be removed should be discussed with the surgeon, as some plates are difficult to remove.

Reply Date: 2022/11/27

More Info

After a pelvic fracture surgery, it is common to have concerns about recovery and what to expect in the following months. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some typical post-operative symptoms, but there are also some issues that warrant further attention.

Firstly, the sensations of numbness, tingling, and swelling in your left foot can be attributed to several factors. These symptoms may be due to nerve irritation or compression, which can occur after a pelvic fracture. The pelvis houses many important nerves, and any trauma or surgical intervention can lead to temporary nerve dysfunction. It is also possible that swelling from the surgery or immobilization is contributing to these sensations. While some degree of discomfort is expected during the recovery process, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by your healthcare provider to rule out any complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or nerve damage.

Regarding your ability to walk, it is normal to experience some limping or difficulty in gait after a pelvic fracture, especially if you are still in the early stages of recovery. The fact that you are using a walker indicates that you are still in the process of regaining strength and stability. As you continue with rehabilitation, your muscle strength and coordination will improve, which should help reduce the limp over time. It is essential to follow your physical therapist's recommendations and gradually increase your activity level as tolerated.

The "foreign body" sensation you are experiencing in your pelvis and thigh could be related to the presence of the implanted hardware (plates and screws). Many patients report feeling the hardware, especially during movements or when pressure is applied. In most cases, this sensation diminishes as the surrounding tissues heal and adapt. However, if it becomes bothersome or painful, discussing the possibility of hardware removal with your orthopedic surgeon may be appropriate. Typically, hardware removal is considered if it causes significant discomfort or if there are concerns about future complications.

As for your recovery timeline, it is essential to understand that healing from a pelvic fracture can take several months, and full recovery may take up to a year or longer, depending on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist will help monitor your progress and adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed.

In summary, while some of the symptoms you are experiencing are common after pelvic fracture surgery, it is crucial to communicate any persistent or worsening issues with your healthcare provider. They can provide a thorough evaluation and ensure that your recovery is on track. With time, rehabilitation, and proper care, many patients can return to normal walking and activity levels after a pelvic fracture.

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