Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Achy Calves After A Rotator Cuff Surgery?
Question: My husband is six days post op from rotator cuff surgery. He is having aching calves, and we are wondering what the chances are of post op blood clots in legs following the above surgery? He does not take blood thinners, but does take a B/P drug, losartan daily.
Brief Answer:
Doppler Ultrasound, prophylaxis need depends on clinical assessment
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
Incidence of DVTs in both upper and lower limbs are possibilities following rotator cuff surgery. The incidence is greater in the first three weeks. If there is associated prolonged immobilization, trauma involving compound fracture or invasive surgery involving arthroplasty then VTE (Venous Thromboembolism) prophylaxis via anticoagulation can be advised in the initial recovery period. However, in case of no such risk factors with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, anticoagulation may not be necessary as incidence is quite low in routine cases. On clinical exam if there is pain and swelling in calves, Doppler Ultrasound of lower limbs should be done to see for patency of the vessels.
Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action
Let me know if you have any query
wishing you best of health
thanks
Doppler Ultrasound, prophylaxis need depends on clinical assessment
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
Incidence of DVTs in both upper and lower limbs are possibilities following rotator cuff surgery. The incidence is greater in the first three weeks. If there is associated prolonged immobilization, trauma involving compound fracture or invasive surgery involving arthroplasty then VTE (Venous Thromboembolism) prophylaxis via anticoagulation can be advised in the initial recovery period. However, in case of no such risk factors with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, anticoagulation may not be necessary as incidence is quite low in routine cases. On clinical exam if there is pain and swelling in calves, Doppler Ultrasound of lower limbs should be done to see for patency of the vessels.
Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action
Let me know if you have any query
wishing you best of health
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. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
