Post-Skin Grafting Recovery: Addressing Swelling and Mobility Issues

After skin graft surgery!!

Hello Dr.
Luo: I was in a car accident at the beginning of September! I sustained a laceration on my right foot with tendon exposure! After an X-ray, the doctor said there was no damage to the bones or tendons! I was hospitalized in a northern hospital for a month, and after being discharged, I continued follow-up for another month.
The doctor said I was recovering well! After that, I returned to the south to recuperate.
I would like to ask you a couple of questions regarding the surgery for the laceration on my foot.
Will the hematoma take a long time to resolve? I do feel that it is slowly swelling down.
Another question is that when I elevate my right foot, it tends to droop down! I am unable to exert force! However, when I support my right foot with my hand, I can bend it down with force! Could this inability to exert force upwards be related to the hematoma? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions!

Azheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/25

Dr. Luo Qihua reply Plastic Surgery

After an injury, the tissue will swell for a period of time; the more severe the injury, the longer the swelling may last, potentially up to six months to a year.
It is recommended that you wear compression stockings to help reduce discomfort caused by the swelling.
A hematoma refers to a collection of blood that accumulates under the skin or in deeper tissues, which does not seem to be your current situation.
As for the inability to dorsiflex the right foot, this may be caused by injury to the peroneal nerve or tendon adhesions, and a proper evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause.

Reply Date: 2004/11/25

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your recovery after skin grafting surgery following your accident. It sounds like you have been through a challenging experience, and I appreciate your patience as you navigate the healing process.

Firstly, regarding the issue of swelling and hematoma (blood accumulation) after your skin grafting procedure, it is quite common for patients to experience some degree of swelling in the affected area. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the body's natural inflammatory response to injury and surgery. Hematomas can take time to resolve, and their duration can vary significantly from person to person. Typically, you may notice that the swelling begins to decrease within a few days to weeks post-surgery, but complete resolution can sometimes take several weeks or even months, depending on the extent of the injury and the individual’s healing capacity.

It is essential to keep the affected limb elevated as much as possible, especially in the initial stages of recovery. Elevation helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and minimizing fluid accumulation in the area. However, if you are experiencing a significant inability to move your foot upward or if it feels as though it is drooping, this could be related to several factors, including muscle weakness, nerve involvement, or indeed, the presence of a hematoma that may be exerting pressure on surrounding tissues.

The fact that you can manually flex your foot when applying pressure suggests that the muscles themselves may still be functional, but there could be a temporary loss of strength or coordination due to the trauma and subsequent surgery. It is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider to assess the extent of your recovery and to rule out any complications such as nerve damage or significant muscle atrophy.

In terms of rehabilitation, physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial in your recovery process. A physical therapist can provide you with targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility in your foot and ankle. They can also help you develop a safe and effective rehabilitation plan tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.

As for the swelling, applying ice packs intermittently can help reduce inflammation, especially in the first few days post-surgery. However, be sure to follow your doctor's advice regarding the use of ice and any other treatments. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support your healing process. Foods high in protein, vitamin C, and zinc are particularly beneficial for tissue repair and recovery.

Lastly, it is essential to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team. If you notice any changes in your symptoms, such as increased pain, redness, or discharge from the surgical site, or if the swelling does not seem to improve, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor. They can provide further evaluation and guidance on the best course of action.

In summary, while it is normal to experience swelling and some limitations in mobility after a skin grafting procedure, it is crucial to monitor your recovery closely and engage in rehabilitation to regain full function. Your proactive approach to your recovery will be key in achieving the best possible outcome.

Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery!
Best regards.

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