Post operative conditions
Causes
- infection (particularly with open fractures)
- blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- nerve damage
- improper bone alignment (malunion)
- delayed healing (nonunion),
- compartment syndrome
- fat embolism
- tissue irritation from hardware
- complications related to anesthesia
Symptoms
- Increased pain, warmth, redness, and swelling around the fracture
- Persistent pain that doesn't improve with rest
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
- Pus pocket that may burst
- Joint pain and difficulty moving
Treatment
- pain management
- preventing infection
- promoting wound healing
- early mobilization within the limits of the surgical repair
- physical therapy to regain range of motion and muscle strength