This three-part guide aims to ensure a smooth process for your foot or ankle surgery and recovery. Achieving the best results involves working closely with Dr. Kamel for both pre-surgery preparation and post-surgical care. Part 3 focuses on what to do in the days immediately after your surgery.
What Symptoms Can You Expect After Surgery?
Post-surgery symptoms are common as your body recovers. You may experience:
- Pain: This will be most intense in the first few days after the nerve block wears off, but it will lessen as your body heals.
- Swelling: Expect swelling in the surgical foot and/or ankle.
- Bruising and Discoloration: Normal colors include blue, red, pink, purple, and brown. However, pale white or dark black may indicate circulation problems and should be reported to Dr. Kamel immediately.
- Blood or Fluid Leakage: This is common when your foot swells after surgery.
- Low-Grade Fevers: A fever up to 100.5°F is normal in the first week. If it persists beyond a week or exceeds 100.5°F at any time, contact the office immediately.
What Home Modifications Are Needed After Surgery?
After foot or ankle surgery, you'll need to adjust your home environment and daily routine. Consider the following:
- Support System: If you live alone, arrange for a friend or relative to stay with you for the first few days to help with daily activities.
- Home Organization: Keep your home clean and organized to avoid injuries. Reduce clutter, secure loose wires and cords, and clean up spills immediately.
- Lighting: Use nightlights in key areas like the bathroom and bedroom to avoid accidents at night.
- Bathroom Adjustments: Keep frequently used toiletries within easy reach, avoiding high or low shelves.
- Bedroom Adjustments: Arrange clothing for easy access. Dress and undress with the surgical leg first to minimize strain. Avoid tight pants or socks that could press against your post-surgical dressing.
- Kitchen Adjustments: Organize frequently used foods within easy reach. Opt for healing foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, lean meats, and dairy. Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks. Prepare and freeze meals before surgery for convenience.
- Bathing Precautions: Keep the surgical leg outside the bathtub and cover it with a large plastic bag or commercial cast cover to keep it dry. Sit on a shower bench or chair to avoid putting weight on your surgical leg.
- Pain Management: Apply ice to the surgical leg to reduce pain. Place the ice in a thin, tight bag over a thin sheet and your surgical dressing to keep it dry. Frozen peas or corn can be a convenient alternative to ice packs.
- Elevation: To decrease pain and swelling, elevate the surgical leg above heart level. Use firm pillows for support.
- Seating: Use firm chairs in every room. Sofas and recliners are good for resting but may not be supportive for sitting or standing up.
- Stairs: Use handrails for support. When going upstairs, lead with the non-surgical leg; when going downstairs, lead with the surgical leg.
Do You Need Blood-Thinning Medication After Surgery?
While the risk of developing a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) after foot or ankle surgery is low, Dr. Kamel may recommend measures to reduce this risk further:
- Avoid Certain Medications: Hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills can increase clotting risk.
- Avoid Nicotine: Nicotine-containing products can increase the risk of blood clots.
- Stay Active: While you may not be able to bear weight on the operated leg, move around the house often and exercise your hips and knees if Dr. Kamel permits.
- Medications: Dr. Kamel may recommend taking aspirin for a few weeks to reduce the risk of blood clots.
When Will Dr. Kamel See You After Surgery?
Typically, you will have your first post-surgical visit between one and three weeks after surgery. Schedule this appointment if it wasn't set before surgery. Contact the office immediately if you have any concerns following your surgery.