Post-fracture surgery
Dear Dr.
Lee,
I was involved in a car accident four months ago, resulting in a fracture of the mandible, a fracture of the right ankle, and an open fracture of the right tibia.
Currently, the healing of the fractures has reached 95%.
However, I experience pain in my foot, ankle, and the fracture site while walking.
Due to limited mobility in my ankle, I am unable to bend it properly when going down stairs, which sometimes causes a burning sensation in my knees.
Will this cause any damage to my knees? I would appreciate your answers to the following questions, thank you!
1.
How long after the removal of the metal plates can I expect to walk normally?
2.
How long should I rest after the removal of the metal plates? (My job requires me to stand for long periods and frequently move around.)
3.
Currently, I am unable to kneel; will I be able to do so after the metal plates are removed?
4.
There is a metal plate in my mandible, and the doctor said it does not need to be removed.
Will there be any long-term effects?
5.
If the metal plate in my mandible is not removed, what precautions should I take?
tian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/29
Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question, recovery after the removal of the metal plate is generally quick.
Typically, during the first week, you will need to rely on crutches, but you can still walk normally.
By the second week, you should be able to walk without crutches, although your range of motion may be slightly limited.
After one month, you should be able to return to normal activities, so it is recommended to rest for one month post-surgery.
Most cases post-surgery can return to their pre-operative condition, so it is important to focus on rehabilitation now.
Currently, you may not be able to kneel, and progress after the removal of the plate may be limited, so it is crucial to make the most of your current situation.
After a mandibular fracture surgery, the metal plate needs to be monitored annually.
If there is no loosening, displacement, or infection, it does not necessarily need to be removed.
The ability to leave it in place indicates that it does not cause any complications for the mandible, but annual follow-up visits are necessary and are the patient's responsibility.
Reply Date: 2005/07/29
More Info
Post-fracture recovery can be a challenging journey, especially after multiple fractures like those you've experienced. It's important to understand that healing is a gradual process, and pain and mobility issues can persist for some time even after the bones have healed. Let's address your concerns one by one.
1. Time to Walk Normally After Hardware Removal: After the removal of hardware such as plates or screws, the timeline for returning to normal walking can vary significantly based on individual healing, the extent of the injury, and the type of rehabilitation undertaken. Generally, it may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to regain full function. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide the best estimate based on your specific situation.
2. Recovery Period Post-Hardware Removal: After the removal of the hardware, a rest period is often recommended, but the duration can depend on how well your body has healed and your overall physical condition. Typically, a few weeks of reduced activity is advised, followed by a gradual return to normal activities. Since your job requires prolonged standing and walking, it’s crucial to follow your doctor's advice on how to ease back into your routine to avoid re-injury.
3. Kneeling Post-Hardware Removal: The ability to kneel comfortably may improve after the removal of the hardware, but this can also depend on the healing of the surrounding soft tissues and any residual pain. Physical therapy can help facilitate this process, and your therapist can provide exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the knee joint.
4. Long-term Effects of Jaw Plate: Leaving a plate in the jaw is common and usually does not cause issues. However, some patients may experience discomfort or sensitivity in the area. It's essential to maintain regular follow-ups with your dentist or oral surgeon to monitor for any complications, such as infection or bone growth around the plate.
5. Precautions with Jaw Plate: If the plate remains in place, you should be aware of potential issues such as discomfort during certain activities (like chewing) or sensitivity to temperature changes. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, and you should inform your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as swelling or pain in the jaw area.
Regarding your current symptoms of pain in the ankle and knee, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort in adjacent joints due to altered biomechanics during the healing process. The limited range of motion in your ankle can indeed place additional stress on your knees, potentially leading to discomfort or even injury over time. It’s advisable to engage in physical therapy focused on strengthening the muscles around the knee and ankle, improving flexibility, and restoring proper movement patterns.
In terms of managing pain, consider using ice therapy, over-the-counter pain medications (as advised by your doctor), and gentle stretching exercises. If pain persists or worsens, it’s crucial to consult your orthopedic surgeon for a thorough evaluation to rule out any complications, such as hardware issues or joint problems.
Lastly, remember that recovery is a personal journey, and it’s essential to listen to your body. Gradually increasing your activity level while adhering to your healthcare provider's recommendations will help ensure a smoother recovery process. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare team will also be vital in monitoring your progress and addressing any concerns that arise.
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