Postoperative Care

The first few days after surgery can be challenging due to pain, swelling, and fatigue. Information here helps to ensure proper and safe recovery. Our goal is to make this experience as pleasant as possible for you.

Pain Relief

Pain is normal. Anesthesia from surgery will wear off, and you can aim to “stay ahead of the pain” by taking medication(s) as prescribed. Be sure to reduce inflammation by elevating the surgical limb above the heart and icing 15 min/hr when awake. 

Incision Site(s)

Please prewash the surgical limb with Hibiclens each day for the last two days before surgery as well as removal of hairs as necessary. 

It is very important to keep your bandages dry and clean. Do not remove the bandages unless instructed by Dr. Chang or staff.  Please acquire Ankle Cast Bag or Leg Cast Bag to protect your surgical splint and dressing from shower or rain water. It is recommended to rehearse prior to surgery and make sure the product works properly as intended. 

Weight Bearing

If you are required to be non-weight bearing after surgery, then you will need to obtain assistive device(s), such as a set of crutches, Knee Scooter, or Hands Free Crutch. It is recommended to assemble and practice using it prior to surgery. In addition, please have it ready inside the car you're going home in after surgery. 

Medical Attention

Finally, if you experience the following symptoms, then please call the office immediately and/or visit the nearest emergency room.

- Severe swelling or pain at the calf
- Excessive amounts of blood on the bandage
- Redness spreading away from surgical site
- Foul odor from the surgical site
- Fever above 102.2 degrees
- Extreme pain out of proportion and not responding to pain medication(s)