HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Are Ankle Swelling And Discoloration On The Foot Related To Ankle Surgery?

Posted on Wed, 23 Aug 2017

Question: I had surgery on my right ankle 5 years ago due to a motorcycle wreck. The surgeon put a plate alomg my tibia and 2 screws that remain in my ankle were supposed to come out, but I didn't have insurance. Eventually they broke from walking on them and my dr said that I could more than likely live with them no problem. My ankle has always swelled off and on, but 3 days ago I noticed my foot started to discolor a bit. I do not have medical insurance, but I'm fearing it may be a blood clot. If it was a blood clot wouldn't my calf area be hurting or at least sensitive? Either way should I go to the ER?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Visit your doctor for foot discoloration.

Detailed Answer:
Hi I am Dr Gopal Goel Orthopedic Surgeon.
The two screws that remain inside and are broken , normally do not lead to any complication. It is very common to leave them and even if they break, nothing happens.
The ankle swelling can occur due to surgery and slowly goes away, again no active intervention is required.
As far as the discoloration is concerned , it is nor normal and I would suggest you visit your doctor and not necessarily ER. It is unlikely to be related to ankle surgery.
Thanx for the question. Please feel free to ask any other question.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Gopal (12 minutes later)

Here is 3 pictures of my ankle that I had surgery on. Could it be a blood clot? I'm very nervous thinking any minute I could be dead. the bruising on the inside has always been there but on the outside on my foot is what concerns me. Wouldn't I have done symptoms if it was a blood clot? Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No blood clot in pictures.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
As far as I can see there is no blood clot in your pictures. There is swelling and a blue web of varicose veins which may have micro ruptures. I suggest you use compression stockings during daytime . If problem persists you can consult your surgeon for tests and further treatment.
Thanx

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Gopal (35 minutes later)

Okay so you suggest just making an appointment with my local orthopedic and letting him take a look at it? My wife keeps telling me to go to the ER, but I do not have medical insurance and I myself don't think it's a blood clot either. What should I look out for that would warrant me taking a trip to the ER? I just don't it to turn into a blood clot eventually.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Use compression stockings to keep it under check.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
This is the effect of Varicose veins in your ankle and as per the pictures not a blood clot. Unless bleeding is severe it is unlikely to turn into a blood clot. Use compression stockings to keep the varicose veins under control .
Thanx for the question.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Gopal (39 minutes later)

Okay thank you so much Dr. Goel I sent 3 more pictures with better lighting and angles so you can see my ankle better. I'm going to the pharmacy as we speak to get a compression sock. Should I also use hot and cold compresses on it too? That's my last question. Thank you

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hot and cold compression not recommended.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Hot and cold compression is not recommended for this situation. Use compression stockings only.
Thanks

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana