Post-Surgery Pain: When to Consult Your Doctor After Three Months?

Three months post-surgery, experiencing sharp pain at the incision site?

Hello doctor, I had surgery at the beginning of September, and it has been nearly three months since then.
However, in the past couple of days, my wound has been experiencing sharp, intermittent pain, like a needle prick.
If I want to confirm whether there is an issue with the wound, should I see the orthopedic surgeon who performed the surgery, or would it be sufficient to visit a general practitioner, a general surgeon, or a dermatologist?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/23

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended to consult the original surgeon for an evaluation to determine if there have been any postoperative changes.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/11/23

More Info

Post-surgery pain that persists for three months, especially if it presents as sharp, stabbing sensations, warrants careful consideration and potentially a consultation with a healthcare professional. It is essential to understand that while some discomfort is expected following surgery, significant or worsening pain after a considerable period can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that pain can arise from various factors post-surgery. These may include:
1. Nerve Irritation or Damage: Surgical procedures can sometimes lead to nerve irritation or damage, which may manifest as sharp, stabbing pains. This is particularly relevant if the surgery involved manipulation or cutting near nerve pathways.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form, which may adhere to surrounding tissues and nerves. This can lead to pain, especially if the scar tissue is compressing or irritating nearby structures.

3. Infection: Although less common after three months, an infection can still develop, particularly if there were any complications during the healing process. Symptoms may include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the surgical site, in addition to pain.

4. Underlying Conditions: Sometimes, the pain may not be directly related to the surgery itself but could be due to pre-existing conditions that were exacerbated by the surgical procedure.

Given your symptoms of intermittent sharp pain at the surgical site, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some steps to consider:
- Consult the Original Surgeon: Since your surgery was performed by a specific orthopedic surgeon, returning to them for follow-up is often the best course of action. They will have access to your surgical history, understand the specifics of the procedure you underwent, and can assess whether your symptoms are typical or indicative of a complication.

- Consider a General Practitioner or Family Doctor: If you are unable to see your surgeon promptly, a general practitioner can provide an initial evaluation. They can assess your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and determine if a referral back to the orthopedic specialist is necessary.

- Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it may be tempting to search for answers online, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety or misinterpretation of your symptoms. It is always best to seek professional advice.

- Document Your Symptoms: When you do consult a healthcare provider, be prepared to describe your symptoms in detail. Note when the pain occurs, its intensity, any activities that exacerbate it, and any other associated symptoms. This information can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

In summary, while some pain can be expected after surgery, persistent or worsening pain, especially if it is sharp and stabbing, should not be ignored. Consulting your original surgeon is typically the best approach, as they are most familiar with your case. If that is not possible, a visit to a general practitioner can also be beneficial. Early intervention can help address any potential complications and facilitate a smoother recovery process.

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