Surgical Site Infection: A Personal Account
Three weeks ago, I underwent an ankle tendon reconstruction with an internal brace. I had my stitches removed about a week back, and everything seemed to be healing well. However, in the last four days, I've noticed some troubling signs of infection. On Sunday, I visited the emergency department, where the doctors prescribed me a strong course of antibiotics and sent me on my way. I followed up with my surgeons yesterday, who advised me to continue the antibiotics for another week and scheduled a follow-up appointment for next week to assess the situation. If my condition hasn’t improved, they may consider a surgical washout. Currently, my ankle is experiencing significant discomfort; it has a burning sensation, feels hot to the touch, and my joint movement is severely restricted. Alongside that, I have a persistent headache, no desire to eat, bouts of nausea, and feelings of extreme fatigue. Although I haven’t developed a fever, I feel shaky, although my heart rate remains stable. I've been on antibiotics for approximately 65 hours now, but I haven't seen any improvement compared to the initial day of treatment. Thankfully, the redness has stopped spreading today. I'm anxious about the possibility of waiting until next week for a follow-up, given that it coincides with the Christmas period and the likelihood of fewer hospital resources. I can’t shake the feeling that my condition isn’t improving, even with the high-dose antibiotics I’m currently taking.
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 11:40:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you're feeling anxious about your recovery from ankle tendon reconstruction, especially with concerning symptoms of infection. It’s important to focus on monitoring your situation closely and managing your symptoms while you await your follow-up appointment.
Main Points:
- Persistent Symptoms: You're experiencing significant discomfort, burning sensation, and restricted movement, along with systemic symptoms like headache, nausea, and fatigue.
- Monitoring and Communication: While you’re on antibiotics, it’s important to keep track of any changes or worsening in your condition and communicate this clearly to your healthcare team.
Explanation:
Surgical site infections can sometimes take time to respond to antibiotics, but it’s crucial to monitor symptoms closely, especially if they escalate. Your current symptoms might suggest that while you’re on antibiotics, there could still be an underlying issue needing attention, especially if the discomfort and systemic symptoms persist.
Next Steps:
- Continue Antibiotics: Follow your surgeon’s recommendation and complete the full course of antibiotics.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting any changes in pain, swelling, heat, or new symptoms like fever or increased redness.
- Use Comfort Measures:
- Elevate the Ankle: Keep your ankle raised to help reduce swelling.
- Cold Compresses: Apply a cold pack to your ankle for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help with discomfort.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids to help with nausea and fatigue.
- Plan for Follow-Up: As your follow-up appointment is next week, prepare a list of all the symptoms you have recorded to discuss with your doctor at that time. If things worsen before then, consider reaching out to your surgical team to see if you can get an earlier appointment, particularly for further evaluation given the holidays.
- Emergency Symptoms: If you develop a fever, increased redness, persistent nausea, or if your pain becomes unbearable, seek medical attention immediately, as these could be signs that you need prompt care.
Your feelings of concern are entirely understandable given the circumstances, but having a plan can help you manage this situation more effectively. Please take care of yourself, and do reach out if you have immediate concerns!
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