It is a medical fact that over half of all surgery patients will have a higher than normal temperature in the days following their surgical procedure.
Low-grade fevers range from about 100 F-101 F; 102 F is intermediate grade for adults at which they should seek medical care. High-grade fevers range from about 103 F-104 F.
Fever after surgery is generally not considered dangerous. Following orthopaedic surgery, you may or may not require medical treatment for the fever alone. Many times, fever is a natural bodily defense against infection. Dangerous temperatures are high-grade fevers that range from over 104 F-107 F or higher. Low-grade fevers that last more than about four to seven days may also need to seek medical care.
A fever after surgery is a common complication that many patients experience. The good news about post-operative fevers is that most are not serious and can be easily treated with ibuprofen. Sometimes, an antibiotic is prescribed.
The more time that passes between the date of your surgery and the days you are experience fever, the less likely the fever is related to your surgery. Fever that lasts that long can be the sign of a more serious problem. You then should seek consultation. It may be something more serious like infection or another condition.
Ortho El Paso provides information through our blog to help educate patients on the expectations following orthopaedic treatment, including surgery. But, all patients are different and experience varying side effects. Fever is one such side effect that should be monitored closely.
For more information on Ortho El Paso, visit www.orthoep.com. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort for an orthopaedic condition or injury, schedule a consultation at 915-249-4000 for "expert care, close to home."
