Spinal Issues Caused by Bacterial Infections: Understanding Treatment Options
Spinal issues caused by bacterial infections? Hello Doctor, My father recently developed a systemic bacterial infection (Klebsiella pneumoniae) due to diabetes, and the doctor diagnosed it as sepsis. He has been in the intensive care unit for over ten days and has since been tra...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Surgical intervention for spinal bacterial infections is one method that may be effective, but its success largely depends on the ability to achieve complete debridement. Postoperatively, antibiotic therapy is also necessary. As for neurological deficits, recovery is not guarante...[Read More] Spinal Issues Caused by Bacterial Infections: Understanding Treatment Options
Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures and Bone Cement Treatment
Regarding the issue of vertebroplasty? Dear Director, 1. How long is medication typically administered for vertebral compression fractures before deciding whether to perform vertebroplasty? 2. Is it necessary to conduct a bone density test or any other preoperative evaluations b...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Medication treatment is aimed at alleviating pain symptoms. There is no requirement to administer medication before performing vertebroplasty. Generally, a bone density test is not necessary beforehand. For cost-related inquiries, it is best to ask the specific hospital you plan ...[Read More] Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures and Bone Cement Treatment
To Operate or Not: Navigating Surgical Decisions in Orthopedics
Do I need surgery? I'm in a dilemma! Hello, Doctor. My mother had a motorcycle accident on May 6 (with no serious external injuries). The X-ray results at Hospital A showed a fractured left clavicle and a comminuted fracture of the right wrist. The physician recommended surg...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, if this is truly troubling you, it would be advisable to seek consultation at a medical center. Legally speaking, if there are issues with a judgment, you can appeal, but ultimately it will go to the higher court. Therefore, if you have concer...[Read More] To Operate or Not: Navigating Surgical Decisions in Orthopedics
Long-Term Use of Ultracet After Knee Replacement: Risks and Concerns
Long-term use of Ultracet? Dear Doctor: My mother, who is 80 years old, underwent a total knee replacement surgery five weeks ago. Although she has been undergoing rehabilitation, she is still experiencing severe pain. The doctor has prescribed Ultracet, three tablets daily, for ...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
Hello, any medication has its side effects, so it is important to understand the patient's level of pain and whether they have had poor responses to other analgesics. For patients with severe pain who do not respond well to other pain relievers, Ultracet is indeed one of the...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Ultracet After Knee Replacement: Risks and Concerns
Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Concerns
Patellar fracture Hello, Doctor. My mother accidentally fell on September 5, resulting in a fracture of the right patella. The doctor said it was just a crack without displacement, so surgery was not necessary. After about two weeks in a cast, it was removed, and the doctor advis...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, in response to your question, based on your description, your mother's condition should gradually improve. I personally suggest: 1. These questions should be directed to your mother's attending physician (as I cannot see her X-rays or examine her in person). 2. I...[Read More] Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Concerns
Post-Surgery Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal Surgery
Just had surgery? Hello, doctor. I recently underwent a discectomy 22 days ago. Everything was going well post-surgery, and all pain had completely resolved. However, in the past two days, I suddenly started experiencing pain again. The incision from my surgery is on the right si...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If it is a sprain, it usually takes about one to two weeks to heal. After surgery, the pain at the incision site typically lasts about one to two weeks as well. It is best to avoid bending at the waist and lifting heavy objects temporarily after surgery. If there is a herniated d...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal Surgery
Alternatives to Surgery for Knee Valgus: What You Need to Know
Tibial external rotation of the knee joint? Due to discomfort in the knee joint, I consulted an orthopedic specialist today, who informed me that surgical treatment is necessary. I would like to inquire if surgery is the only option available, or if there are alternative treatmen...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Knee valgus typically refers to the lateral displacement of the patella during knee flexion. If this occurs frequently in patients, it can lead to joint wear and irreversible damage over time, necessitating surgical intervention. If the dislocation is not severe (not a complete d...[Read More] Alternatives to Surgery for Knee Valgus: What You Need to Know
Choosing Between Plates and Pins for Colles Fracture Treatment: A Guide
Colles' Fracture (Distal Radius Fracture) Hello Director Chen, I have a closed fracture of the radius due to a car accident, and I have osteoporosis. Currently, my doctor has recommended using a plate for fixation because the bone is somewhat fragmented. If I manage my house...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Readers: Distal radius fractures are commonly seen in postmenopausal women due to falls, resulting in osteoporotic fractures. Treatment options include closed reduction with cast immobilization, closed reduction with percutaneous pinning and cast immobilization, closed reduc...[Read More] Choosing Between Plates and Pins for Colles Fracture Treatment: A Guide
Rehabilitation After Medial Collateral Ligament Repair: What You Need to Know
Is rehabilitation necessary after medial collateral ligament (MCL) repair surgery? Hello, Director. I suffered an accident last year that resulted in a rupture of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). I have since undergone surgery for the...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The purpose of rehabilitation is to increase the strength of the leg or knee joint, as well as to enhance its range of motion. Typically, rehabilitation can begin six weeks post-surgery. If the anterior cruciate ligament is only partially torn and stability is sufficient, surgery...[Read More] Rehabilitation After Medial Collateral Ligament Repair: What You Need to Know
Post-Surgery Elbow Recovery: Understanding Limitations and Care Tips
Olecranon of the left elbow Hello: I underwent left olecranon surgery (with steel pin insertion) on February 9th. On the sixth postoperative day, I noticed that my palm cannot fully rotate upwards (it remains facing upwards), and I can only rotate it from palm down to palm up by ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Student Yeh: After the surgery for an olecranon fracture with the placement of a steel pin, it is important to check whether the proximal radioulnar joint is stabilized. If it is not, this is generally a temporary phenomenon. If there is no significant instability, elbow joint mo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Elbow Recovery: Understanding Limitations and Care Tips
Post-Surgery Issues with Artificial Bone: Managing Swelling and Discomfort
Postoperative issues related to artificial bone surgery? My grandmother had a fracture above her knee about a month and a half ago and underwent surgery to replace the bone with an artificial one. The doctor applied a cast (from the fracture site to the sole of her foot) because ...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
The fracture above the knee is likely a distal femoral fracture, which is generally considered an unstable fracture. Postoperatively, it should be stabilized with a cast for a short period (approximately four to six weeks). If there is pressure from the cast on the sole of the fo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Issues with Artificial Bone: Managing Swelling and Discomfort
Understanding Knee Replacement Costs: A Guide for Patients and Families
Knee joint medical expenses Hello! My father has been suffering from knee joint pain for many years, and it has worsened significantly in the past two years. He underwent some initial and intermediate treatments, but he was unable to patiently continue with long-term rehabilitati...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Currently, the National Health Insurance covers the cost of artificial knee joints (when conditions meet the insurance standards) for a total amount of approximately NT$130,000. Patients are responsible for about 10% to 20% of the costs, but this does not include the difference i...[Read More] Understanding Knee Replacement Costs: A Guide for Patients and Families
Post-Operative Care for Artificial Arm Joint Surgery: Tips and Guidelines
Postoperative care for artificial limb joint surgery? Approximately one year after the placement of a prosthetic arm, surgery is required. What kind of postoperative care is needed, and what should be avoided? Additionally, are there any restrictions regarding fasting and sleep? ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The question is not very clear, making it difficult to answer. However, if it involves the removal of an artificial elbow joint or an artificial shoulder joint, appropriate protection and stabilization must be ensured post-surgery. Certain movements should be avoided, and it is e...[Read More] Post-Operative Care for Artificial Arm Joint Surgery: Tips and Guidelines
Understanding Finger Joint Replacement: Key Questions Answered
Questions about artificial finger joints? A month ago, I injured the joint of my right hand's ring finger in an accident. The doctor diagnosed it as a fracture causing joint surface damage. I was informed that in order to regain normal movement and bending, I would need to u...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Reader, Finger joint replacement is not common and has only been sporadically reported at academic conferences. This is related to the specific patient population suitable for the procedure and the suboptimal postoperative outcomes. Previous reports have indicated that whil...[Read More] Understanding Finger Joint Replacement: Key Questions Answered
Can I Ride a Motorcycle After a Tibia Fracture Recovery?
Tibia fracture Doctor, I had an open tibial fracture from a car accident in early May this year, and I had a rod inserted. In early October, during my follow-up appointment, the doctor said that half of the bone had healed and I could use a crutch to practice walking. Currently, ...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: The best answer comes from your attending physician. If possible, please consult your attending physician directly. They can assess your bone structure and postoperative recovery status. You should be able to ride a motorcycle, but it's best to get their recommendatio...[Read More] Can I Ride a Motorcycle After a Tibia Fracture Recovery?
Understanding Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort After Shoulder Injury
I would like to inquire about the issue of right acromioclavicular joint dislocation? The individual was involved in a car accident on August 21, 2009, resulting in a torn ligament in the right shoulder. Five days later, surgery was performed to implant a steel plate. Currently, ...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: The swelling in your right hand is likely due to poor circulation from not elevating the limb. Elevating the right upper limb and performing finger exercises sh...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort After Shoulder Injury
Managing Patellar Chondromalacia: Treatment Options and Relief Strategies
Patellar chondromalacia I am a patient with patellar chondromalacia, experiencing cartilage wear on the right patella, graded between 2 and 3! I have undergone a tibial tuberosity osteotomy with a 1 cm elevation. Postoperatively, I feel significant pressure on the cartilage above...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Minimize pressure on the patella as much as possible, such as when going up and down stairs, hiking, or performing squatting, kneeling, and jumping movements. This may help alleviate symptoms. If the surface of the patella is already worn, the symptoms may persist. If possible, r...[Read More] Managing Patellar Chondromalacia: Treatment Options and Relief Strategies
Understanding Trigger Finger: Post-Surgery Pain and Recovery Insights
Trigger finger I have been suffering from trigger finger in my right middle finger for many years. After multiple courses of anti-inflammatory medication and two local steroid injections that were ineffective, I finally underwent surgery in early July 2008 to release or excise th...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: Your issue is likely not related to trigger finger (as that should have been resolved after surgery). The persistent soreness and weakness in your right hand, along with the inability to fully bend your fingers and the stiffness and swelling of the joints, may indicate ten...[Read More] Understanding Trigger Finger: Post-Surgery Pain and Recovery Insights
Managing Leg Atrophy and Stroke Recovery: Surgical Options Explained
The left leg has atrophied and deformed due to a car accident, compounded by a stroke? Hello Dr. Yeh, my father is currently about 58 years old. When he was 20, he was involved in a serious car accident that caused injury to his left leg. After surgery, he was able to walk normal...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your questions and provide the following suggestions: 1. Generally speaking, it is unclear whether the atrophy in your knee is due to the artificial joint. Artificial joints are typically indicated for knee pain. I...[Read More] Managing Leg Atrophy and Stroke Recovery: Surgical Options Explained
Surgical Options for Trigger Finger: Insights from Orthopedic Experts
Regarding the surgical technique referred to as "trigger finger" in your department? Hello Director Li! May I ask what surgical methods are available for trigger finger in your department? Which physician in your department performs the percutaneous puncture method? Bas...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the percutaneous puncture method has its drawbacks. Our hospital employs the traditional incision method, which requires approximately one week for recovery.[Read More] Surgical Options for Trigger Finger: Insights from Orthopedic Experts