Post-Fracture Surgery: Is Swelling and Discomfort Normal?

Is it normal after fracture surgery?

Hello Dr.
Shi: I would like to ask you a question.
I fell and fractured my left wrist on November 18, underwent surgery to have a metal plate inserted, and had my cast removed on December 18.
Since the cast was removed, my entire left hand, including all five fingers, has been red, swollen, and feels very tight, almost like a balloon.
Is this a normal phenomenon, or could it indicate that the surgery was incomplete?
1.
If this is normal, how long should I expect to undergo rehabilitation before returning to normal function?
2.
How long will the redness and swelling last?
3.
If this is not normal, will I need to undergo another surgery?
Thank you for taking the time to respond, and I would appreciate a prompt reply.
Thank you.

Linda, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/23

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

You may have a fracture near the wrist, which typically heals in about six to eight weeks after surgery.
It is common to experience swelling after the cast is removed, but this will improve with rehabilitation.
It is important to intentionally move the joints near the fracture every day, such as the metacarpophalangeal joints or interphalangeal joints, to prevent joint stiffness.
If the fracture heals and joint movement is normal, no further surgery will be necessary.

Reply Date: 2004/12/23

More Info

After a fracture surgery, it is common to experience swelling and discomfort, especially in the initial weeks following the procedure. In your case, having undergone surgery for a fracture on November 18 and subsequently having your cast removed on December 18, the persistent swelling and redness in your left hand and fingers could be attributed to several factors.

1. Normal Post-Operative Response: Swelling is a typical response after surgery due to inflammation and the body’s healing process. The surgical site may remain swollen for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the injury and the extent of the surgery. The body sends extra blood and fluids to the area to promote healing, which can lead to a feeling of tightness or a balloon-like appearance in the affected limb.

2. Duration of Swelling and Recovery: Generally, swelling should gradually decrease over time. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for swelling to fully subside. Engaging in physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises can significantly aid in reducing swelling and restoring function. The timeline for recovery varies widely among individuals, but many patients can expect to see improvement within 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery.
3. Signs of Complications: While some swelling is normal, you should be vigilant for signs that may indicate complications. If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, increased redness, warmth, or if you notice any discharge from the surgical site, these could be signs of infection or other complications. In such cases, it is crucial to consult your surgeon or healthcare provider immediately.

4. Need for Further Surgery: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen over time, further evaluation may be necessary. This could involve imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the surgical site and ensure that the fracture has healed properly. If there are issues such as malunion (improper healing of the bone) or complications related to the hardware used in the surgery, a revision surgery might be required. However, this is typically not the first course of action unless there are clear indications of a problem.

5. Rehabilitation: Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program is essential for recovery. Physical therapy can help improve range of motion, strength, and function in your hand and fingers. Your therapist will likely provide exercises tailored to your specific needs, which can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
In summary, while some swelling and discomfort are normal after fracture surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have concerns about the severity of your swelling or if it persists beyond what is typical, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide you with a more personalized assessment based on your specific situation and medical history.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Concerns: Swelling and Recovery After Leg Fracture

Hello doctor, my mother is 56 years old and had a car accident last month, resulting in a fracture of her lower leg with a metal plate inserted. However, it has been a month and her ankle is still swollen, and when pressed, it leaves an indentation that takes a few seconds to ret...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
After surgery, the affected limb is prone to swelling, which is due to reduced activity levels. Following a fracture surgery, patients should not resume activity too early, as swelling is a common issue in the short term. Swelling can negatively impact circulation and the wound. ...

Post-Surgery Hip Replacement: Understanding Pain and Swelling Concerns

Hello Doctor: My mother suffered a fall and fractured her hip. The doctor determined that she needed a partial hip replacement, which she underwent three weeks ago. However, she is experiencing sharp pain in her groin and knee, and her groin area feels very tight and hard. Is thi...

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics
Hello, it has been three weeks since the surgery, and I am experiencing sharp pain in the groin and knee, along with tightness and hardness in the groin area. These are normal postoperative symptoms. Currently, my foot is still swollen, which is also a normal postoperative phenom...

Post-Surgery Recovery: Understanding Swelling and Pain After Toe Surgery

After undergoing minimally invasive surgery for a fracture of the little toe and having the metal pin removed about 8-10 days ago, I am experiencing recurrent swelling and pain. I would like to ask the doctor if this is a normal situation. 1. Typically, after slight activity du...

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics
Hello, rehabilitation after a fracture surgery should be monitored with X-rays for accurate assessment. It is recommended that you consult the surgeon who performed your operation for more precise guidance.

Post-Surgery Concerns: Is Swelling Normal After Calcaneus Fracture?

One and a half months after the surgery, the skin has been consistently swollen. Is this normal? I feel very confused.

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
Hello! After surgery, you can apply cold compresses and elevate the affected limb to alleviate pain and swelling at the surgical site. If you experience persistent pain and worsening redness and swelling, significant bleeding, purulent drainage, loss of sensation at the surgical ...