Open Knee Fractures: Causes of Fever and Post-Surgery Care

Open fracture of the knee, including tendon rupture?

After a car accident, I sustained an open fracture of the knee and underwent surgery on June 3rd, which went well.
However, a week later, I developed a high fever with increasing frequency.
What could be the reason for this? Also, I have a follow-up appointment on June 27th to assess the situation and remove the stitches.
How should I take care of myself in the meantime?

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/06/22

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics

One week after open fracture surgery of the knee, an increase in fever frequency is most likely due to a bacterial infection, and close monitoring is necessary.
It is important to observe the fracture wound for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Promptly return to the hospital for evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2011/06/22

More Info

Open knee fractures are serious injuries that can lead to various complications, including infections, delayed healing, and chronic pain. The fact that you experienced a high fever a week after surgery raises concerns about potential complications, such as infection, which is a common risk associated with open fractures.

Causes of Fever After Surgery
1. Infection: One of the most significant concerns following an open fracture and subsequent surgery is the risk of infection. Open fractures expose the bone and surrounding tissues to the external environment, increasing the likelihood of bacterial contamination. If bacteria enter the wound, it can lead to an infection, which may manifest as fever, increased pain, swelling, and redness around the surgical site.

2. Inflammatory Response: After surgery, the body naturally responds with inflammation, which can sometimes cause a mild fever. However, if the fever is high or persistent, it is essential to consider the possibility of an infection.

3. Other Complications: Other potential causes of fever could include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, or other systemic responses to surgery.

Post-Surgery Care
1. Monitoring for Signs of Infection: After surgery, it is crucial to monitor the surgical site for any signs of infection. Look for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

2. Pain Management: Pain is a common experience after surgery. Ensure that you follow your doctor's recommendations for pain management, which may include medications such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

3. Wound Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding when and how to change dressings. Avoid soaking the wound in water until it has fully healed.

4. Physical Activity: Depending on your doctor's advice, you may need to limit physical activity initially. Using crutches or a walker can help you move around without putting too much weight on the injured knee. Gradually increase your activity level as advised by your healthcare provider.

5. Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is crucial for healing. Focus on foods rich in protein, vitamins (especially Vitamin C and D), and minerals (like calcium and zinc) to support bone healing. Staying hydrated is also essential.

6. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your orthopedic surgeon. These visits are critical for monitoring your recovery and addressing any concerns, including the fever you experienced.

7. Physical Therapy: Once your doctor gives you the green light, engaging in physical therapy can help restore strength and mobility to your knee. A physical therapist can provide exercises tailored to your recovery needs.

Conclusion
In summary, experiencing a fever after surgery for an open knee fracture can indicate a possible infection or other complications. It is vital to monitor your symptoms closely and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns. Proper post-surgery care, including wound management, nutrition, and physical therapy, plays a significant role in recovery. Always follow your doctor's recommendations and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you notice any unusual symptoms. Your health and recovery are the top priorities, and addressing any issues promptly can lead to better outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Fever After Patella Fracture: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Doctor. It has been about a month since my patellar fracture surgery. Although the affected limb has some swelling and warmth in the knee, the surface of the wound has completely healed. However, in the past two to three days, I have been experiencing intermittent low-grad...

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics
In the past two to three days, there has been a recurring low-grade fever, which may not necessarily indicate an infection following patellar fracture surgery. Postoperative infections from fractures typically present with swelling and warmth around the knee, along with noticeabl...

Post-Surgery Care for Open Femur Fractures: Understanding Fever and Healing

Dr. Li, I apologize for bothering you again. My mother suffered an open femoral fracture before the Lunar New Year and underwent surgical treatment. She is currently resting at home, and after several follow-up visits over the past few months, the fracture site has not yet healed...

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Open fractures tend to heal more slowly. If there is suspicion of infection at the fracture site, a follow-up appointment for blood tests to monitor inflammatory markers can provide clearer conclusions.

Post-Surgery Fever and Swelling After Knee Replacement: What to Know

Hello, doctor! My mother (60 years old) underwent a total knee arthroplasty on July 8th of this year, and it has been about a month and a half since the surgery. Her rehabilitation is going well; she can walk without crutches and uses a stationary bike for therapy (not exceeding ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Mild warmth at the incision site after total knee arthroplasty may be normal, typically lasting for about two to three months. If there is no drainage or purulent discharge from the wound, it is generally not a concern, and local ice application can help alleviate discomfort. How...

Post-Surgery Concerns for Ankle Fracture Recovery

Hello, doctor. My husband had an open fracture of his right ankle from a car accident a few days ago, and he underwent surgery today to have a metal plate inserted. He has been experiencing recurrent fevers every day, and after the surgery, the lower half of his right calf is red...

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
Hello: The occurrence of fever without any accompanying symptoms is not common. Please discuss this with the surgeon as soon as possible to ensure that your husband is within the normal range of postoperative recovery. We hope for a swift recovery for your family.