Trauma Surgery
The number of hospitalisations per year in Australia due to injuries and trauma now exceeds 460,000. As well as surgery for fractures, joint dislocations and soft tissue injuries, trauma is a subspecialty interest of Dr Stevens.
Dr Stevens has undergone subspecialty training in Orthopaedic trauma at the Southmead Major Trauma Centre in England. He was awarded a Masters Degree in Orthopaedic Trauma from the University of Edinburgh and has published many research papers on the management of various traumatic injuries. He is an active member of the Australian defence force with expertise in the management of combat related injuries.
Treatment of trauma requires a team approach. Surgery may be required. The type of surgery and the rehabilitation required is unique to the patient and their injury.
HIDE
Trauma is not only a physical injury, it can also be a distressing and emotional experience.
Trauma to bones can result in fractures while injury to muscle and tendons typical results in tears. Sometimes bones and joints need to be splinted or braced and other times surgery is required.
There is never a good time to experience unexpected trauma. Dr Stevens and his team will help you to understand your injury and provide timely care to get you back to the best you can be.
Dr Stevens will perform a complete assessment of your injury to determine what treatment options are available. There are often different ways to treat injuries and these can be discussed and personalised to your specific needs and requirements.
It is important to know, that while trauma surgery is common, the degree of healing that the body is able to undergo may vary from one person to another. Sometimes, surgery is required to stabilise the initial injury and further surgery to ‘reconstruct’ damaged regions may be required.
After any type of injury, the body will try to heal itself. Surgery can help in putting bones and soft tissue back to the correct place.
Some of the most important things you can do to help your body heal include:
- Eating healthy
- Quitting smoking
- Vitamin C
- Keeping wounds clean and dry
- Working with health professionals to stay as active as possible
- Maintaining a positive attitude
Surgical fact sheets
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Clavicle Fractures
Fractures of the collar bone (Clavicle) can occur at any age and are usual as a result of a fall or accident. Some fractures can be managed in a broad arm sling while some fractures of the clavicle require surgery.
Dr Jarrad Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. For children, surgery can nearly always be avoidable due to the amazing healing potential of this bone. If surgery is not required for your clavicle fracture, then a sling to help hold the shoulder high and in place will be fitted for you. Follow up x-rays are normally required.
A broad arm sling is fitted, this holds the weight of the arm allowing the clavicle to heal.
If the fracture has moved the bone too much or if the break is unstable or causing issues with the skin, then surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
These pictures show a normal clavicle a fractured mid-shaft clavicle and a clavicle fixed with surgery.
What to expect after your surgery:
Normally you will need to stay in hospital overnight. You will be discharged home the following day with a dressing over the surgery site and a sling. Avoid getting the dressing wet. You will be given pain relief medications to take home with you which you will typically require for the first few days after surgery.
At home you can begin to gently move the shoulder. You can move your hand, fingers and elbow but remain in the sling provided for most of the day. Walking and gentle exercise is advised. Driving should be avoided after surgery and discussed at the 2 week review with Dr Stevens.
Your surgery site should be reviewed at two weeks following the operation. This should be done either by your local doctor or Dr Stevens. Physiotherapists can normally begin to move your arm and shoulder two weeks following surgery.
There are risks with surgery. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Because the collar bone is so close to the skin, surgery to remove plate and screws maybe required once the bone has healed.
Damage to nerve or blood vessels may have occurred as a result of the injury or when fixing the fracture. Great care is taken during your surgery to ensure all of the important structures such large veins and arteries to the arm and the lungs are protected as best as possible. Damage to these structures could cause serious injury or even death. Dr Stevens will discuss these risks with you at your consultation.
*If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your wrist injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
*You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay clean and dry for 14 days.
* You can move you fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the clavicle rest and heal.
*After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
*Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Fractures of the Lateral Clavicle and AC Joint Dislocations
Fractures of the collar bone (Clavicle) or dislocations of the AC joint can occur at any age and are usual as a result of a fall or accident. Some fractures or dislocations can be managed in a broad arm sling while others may require surgery.
Dr Jarrad Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. If the clavicle is fractured close to the AC joint or the AC joint is dislocated surgery may be recommended. If surgery is not required for your clavicle fracture or AC joint dislocation, then a sling to help hold the shoulder high and in place will be fitted for you. Follow up x-rays are normally required.
A broad arm sling is fitted, this holds the weight of the arm allowing the clavicle to heal.
If the fracture or dislocation has moved the bone too much or if the break is unstable or causing issues with the skin, then surgery to lock the bone and AC joint back in place may be the best option. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
What to expect after surgery:
You will stay in hospital overnight following your clavicle surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for a couple of days when you need.
You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay dry and clean for 14 days.
You can move your hand, fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the shoulder rest.
You can begin to gently move the shoulder a couple of days after surgery but do not carry any weight or lift anything during the first 2 weeks.
Do not lift your shoulder above 90 degrees or lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound looked at, any stitches removed, he will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your arm and shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Pendular type exercises can be started at home yourself in the first 2 weeks after surgery:
This exercise allows you to gently move the shoulder and arm in a slow circular movement several times and day. It helps keep the shoulder moving so that it does not get stiff.
Walking and gentle exercise is recommended after your surgery.
You cannot swim or start hydrotherapy until the wound has healed completely, usually at least 2 weeks
Depending on the type of work you do, will depend how long you will need off work. Usually, Dr Stevens recommends 2 weeks. However, you may wish to perform computer or office-based work in the week after surgery.
Manual work should be avoided until the fracture has healed – this may take 6-12 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing AC Joint or lateral Clavicle fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. The Plate may lose position and further surgery could be required. Frequently the plate is requires removal. This is done as a day procedure.. Arthritis of the AC Joint may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Clavicle Fractures
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and can be discharged the following day with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next two to three of days as you need. If you have had a graze over the clavicle you may be discharged with antibiotics to help prevent infection.
Looking after the surgical scar: There will be a dressing over the surgical incision over the collar bone. You will be in a sling for comfort. This helps to keep the clavicle still while it heals and helps you to remain as comfortable as possible.
You will need to keep the dressing clean and relatively dry.
If the dressing does get wet, pad it dry – it should remain on for 10-14 days.
Movement after surgery: You can move you fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the clavicle rest.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle walking and exercise is helpful
In the first 2 weeks after surgery do not lift your shoulder above 90 degrees or lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
You can gentle move the shoulder in a circular type motion – this is called a pendular shoulder exercise.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your clavicle. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Rotator Cuff
Injuries and tears to the tendons of the shoulder are quite common. Not all tendon tears will need surgery, some injuries will get better with time. Together with Associate Professor Martin Richardson, Dr Stevens has published a paper describing a technique for fixing rotator cuff tears: A New Single-row Cruciate Suture Anchor Repair for Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can be managed in a sling. Physiotherapy may help you get good function of the shoulder. Some more serious tears may require surgery.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and scans (MRI or ultrasound). If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens can help guide you through the process. A successful outcome will require a recovery period followed by rehabilitation with physiotherapists close to your home.
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your shoulder injury, you will stay in hospital for day surgery or if the injury is associated with a fracture which is fixed, then an overnight stay following your surgery is normal. You will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three to days as you need.
You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay clean and dry for 14 days.
You can move your hand, fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the shoulder rest.
You can begin to gently move the shoulder a couple of days after surgery but do not carry any weight or lift anything during the first 2 weeks.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your arm and shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing your torn rotator cuff muscles. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the tendon. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur.
Rehabilitation following surgery to repair tendons of the shoulder: Information based on programs from the Sydney Shoulder Unit
STAGE 0 (0-2 weeks)
Pendular type exercises can be started in the first 2 weeks after surgery:
This exercise allows you to gently move the shoulder and arm in a slow circular movement several times and day. It helps keep the shoulder moving so that it does not get stiff.
In the first two weeks do not lift your shoulder above 90 degrees or lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
STAGE 1 (2 – 6 weeks)
Lying down, clasp fingers together and use your ‘good’ arm to raise the ‘bad’ arm from your abdomen towards your head
Now try to raise both arms over your head and hold for 5 seconds
Complete 5 repetitions, 5 times per day
STAGE 2 (6 – 12 weeks)
Start sitting in a chair, then progress to standing when comfortable
Clasp fingers together and place your hands on your head and rest for a few seconds.
Now straighten your elbows and raise your hands above your head and hold for 5 seconds
Bring your hands back down to your abdomen, with your elbows tucked into your side resting on a flat surface, take your hands out as wide as you can and hold for 5 seconds.
Complete 5 repetitions, 5 times per day
STAGE 3 (12 weeks onwards)
Commence strengthening exercises as directed by your physiotherapist
Shoulder Fractures
Fractures of the proximal humerus (Shoulder) can occur at any age and are usual as a result of a fall or accident. Some fractures can be managed in a sling, while some fractures of the shoulder require surgery.
Dr Jarrad Stevens will assess your injury and organise any x-rays and scans required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process for a successful outcome. This will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne. Dr Stevens regularly performs surgery for fractured shoulders and has written a paper describing a technique for using x-rays in theatre to help with surgery: The Sydney Harbour Bridge Technique
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. For children, surgery can nearly always be avoidable due to the amazing healing potential of this bone. If surgery is not required for your shoulder fracture then a sling to help hold the shoulder high and in place will be fitted for you. Follow up x-rays are normally required.
A broad arm sling is fitted, this holds the weight of the arm allowing the clavicle to heal.
If the fracture has moved the bone too much or if the broken bone is causing issues with the skin, then surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
There are risks with surgery. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Because the shoulder involves a joint, surgery to remove plate and screws maybe required once the bone has healed. Damage to nerve or blood vessels may have occurred as a result of the injury or when fixing the fracture. Great care is taken during your surgery to ensure all of the important structures such large veins and arteries to the arm are protected as best as possible. Damage to these structures could cause serious injury.
Dr Stevens will discuss these risks with you at your consultation.
What to expect after surgery:
*You will stay in hospital overnight following your shoulder surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for a couple of days when you need.
*You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay dry and clean for 14 days.
* You can move your hand, fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the shoulder rest.
*You can begin to gently move the shoulder a couple of days after surgery but do not carry any weight or lift anything during the first 2 weeks.
*Do not lift your shoulder above 90 degrees or lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
*After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound looked at, any stitches removed, he will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
*Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your arm and shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Pendular type exercises can be started at home yourself in the first 2 weeks after surgery:
This exercise allows you to gently move the shoulder and arm in a slow circular movement several times and day. It helps keep the shoulder moving so that it does not get stiff.
Walking and gentle exercise is recommended after your surgery.
You cannot swim or start hydrotherapy until the wound has healed completely, usually at least 2 weeks
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the shoulder you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your shoulder fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the plate and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Humerus Fractures
Fractures of the arm (Humerus) can occur at any age and are usual as a result of a fall or accident. Some fractures can be managed in a specialist brace while other fractures of the humerus require surgery.
Dr Stevens is a trauma surgeon and will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, our team will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens may organise for a specialist brace to be fitted for you (Sarmiento Brace). Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if the fracture is unstable then surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and can be discharged the following day with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next to take for two to three of days as you need. If you have had a graze over the fractured arm you may be discharged with antibiotics to help prevent infection.
Looking after the surgical scar: There will be a dressing over the surgical incision over the arm. You will be in a sling for comfort. This helps to keep the broken bone still while it heals and helps you to remain as comfortable as possible.
You will need to keep the dressing clean and relatively dry.
If the dressing does get wet, pad it dry – it should remain on for 10-14 days.
Movement after surgery: You can move your fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the arm rest.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle walking and exercise is helpful
In the first 2 weeks after surgery do not lift your shoulder above 90 degrees or lift anything heavier than a glass of water.
You can gentle move the shoulder in a circular type motion – this is called a pendular shoulder exercise.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your shoulder moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your humerus. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future. Damage to nerve or blood vessels may have occurred as a result of the injury or when fixing the fracture. Great care is taken during your surgery to ensure all of the important structures such as the radial nerve are protected. Damage to these structures could cause serious injury loss of function. Sometimes, as a result of the injury or surgery, nerves may stop working for a period of time (normally 3 months). Dr Stevens will discuss these risks with you at your consultation.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Distal Humerus Fractures
Distal Humerus fractures are relatively uncommon injuries. Most fractures will simply be a crack while others will be significant elbow injuries. Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome which will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists or a hand therapist. Some fractures will still need a cast after surgery and other types of fractures can be managed in a sling.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will oversee treatment in a sling. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the elbow, surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option.
Once fixed, you can begin to move the elbow, hand and wrist under the instruction of Dr Stevens and your physiotherapist. Your wound will need to be checked 2 weeks after the operation to make sure that the skin is healing well.
What to expect after surgery:
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your elbow injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
There will be a dressing over the surgical incision on the side of your elbow. You will have a bandage over the elbow and a sling. Sometimes a half cast is required to keep the elbow still.
You can move your fingers, wrist and shoulder straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the elbow rest.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your elbow moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing fixing your distal humerus fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Two important nerves, the radial and unla nerve, may be injured as a result of your injury or the surgery to fix it. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future. Removal of bone fragments may be required. Arthritis of the elbow may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Olecranon Fractures
Olecranon fractures are relatively common injuries. Most fractures will simply be a crack while others will be significant elbow injuries. Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation, often with physiotherapists or a hand therapist. Some fractures will still need a cast after surgery and other types of fractures can be managed in a sling.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will oversee treatment in a sling. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the elbow, surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option.
Once fixed, you can begin to move the elbow, hand and wrist under the instruction of Dr Stevens and your physiotherapist. Your wound will need to be checked 2 weeks after the operation to make sure that the skin is healing well.
What to expect after surgery:
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your elbow injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
There will be a dressing over the surgical incision on the back of your elbow. You will have a bandage over the elbow and a sling. Sometimes a half cast is required to keep the elbow still.
You can move your fingers, wrist and shoulder straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the elbow rest.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your elbow moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing fixing your distal humerus fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Nerves may be injured as a result of your injury or the surgery to fix it. Sometimes surgery to remove screws, wires or plate is required in the future. Removal of bone fragments may be required. Arthritis of the elbow may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Distal Biceps Tear
Injuries and tears to the distal biceps tendon normal occur when a heavy load or object pulls the forearm down while a person is trying to lift up. Not all tendon tears will need surgery. If you have a desk-based job and do not need to regularly lift heavy objects the tendon can be left alone. Normally, good pain free range of movement will be achieved. If the biceps is not repaired, studies have shown that there will be a 30% loss in elbow flexion strength and a 40% decrease in forearm supination strength.
Distal Bicep tears can be managed in a sling. Physiotherapy may help you get good function of the elbow even with decreased power.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and scans (MRI or ultrasound). If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens can help guide you through the process. A successful outcome will require a recovery period followed by rehabilitation with physiotherapists close to your home.
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your distal biceps injury, you will stay in hospital overnight stay following your surgery. You will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for the next few days as you need.
You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay clean and dry for 14 days. A plaster will be placed onto the back of the elbow for 2 weeks.
You can move your hand, fingers and shoulder straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the elbow rest.
You can begin to gently move the elbow a couple of days after surgery but do not carry any weight or lift anything during the first 2 weeks.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your arm and elbow moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing your torn distal biceps tendon.. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the tendon. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Re-rupture or further injury is possible. Damage to an important nerve – the posterior interosseous nerve is a potential complication of this surgery. Damage to structures in the elbow such as nerves and arteries may occur as a result of the injury or surgery.
STAGE 1 (0-2 weeks)
Pendular type exercises can be started in the first 2 weeks after surgery:
This exercise allows you to gently move the shoulder and arm in a slow circular movement several times and day. It helps keep the shoulder moving so that it does not get stiff.
In the first two weeks leave the plaster on the elbow and move the fingers as best you can.
STAGE 2 (2 – 6 weeks)
The plaster will be removed, the wound reviewed and the sling re-applied. You can move your elbow 30-120 degrees. Dr Stevens will demonstrate this at your appointment.
Grip strength exercise and shoulder movements can be undertaken.
STAGE 3 (6 – 12 weeks)
Full range of movement can begin and physiotherapy may help in achieving this.
STAGE 3 (12 weeks onwards)
Commence strengthening exercises as directed by your physiotherapist
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
RADIAL HEAD FRACTURE
Radial Head fractures are common injuries of the elbow. Most fractures will simply be a crack in the ‘head’ of the radius – the bone which helps as rotate the forearm.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome which will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists or a hand therapist. Some fractures will still need a cast after surgery and other types of fractures can be managed in a sling.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will oversee treatment in a sling. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the elbow, surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option.
Once fixed, you can begin to move the elbow, hand and wrist under the instruction of Dr Stevens and your physiotherapist. wound will need to be checked 2 weeks after the operation to make sure that the skin is healing well.
Occasionally the fracture will be too broken to fix. Removing the broken bone or a replacement may be the best option.
What to expect after surgery:
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your elbow injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
There will be a dressing over the surgical incision on the side of your elbow. You will have a bandage over the elbow and a sling. This helps keep the ekbow still while it heals.
You can move you fingers, wrist and shoulder straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the elbow rest.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your elbow moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing fixing your radial head fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. An important nerve, the radial nerve, may be injured as a result of your injury or the surgery to fix it. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future. Removal of the bone fragment or a radial head replacement may be required. Arthritis of the elbow may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Fractures of the Radius and Ulna
Forearm fractures are relatively uncommon injuries. Some fractures will simply be a crack while others will be significant elbow and wrist injuries. Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation, often with physiotherapists or a hand therapist. Some fractures will still need a cast after surgery and other types of fractures can be managed in a sling.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the elbow forearm or wrist, surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option.
Once fixed, you can begin to move the elbow, hand and wrist under the instruction of Dr Stevens and your physiotherapist. Your wound will need to be checked 2 weeks after the operation to make sure that the skin is healing well.
What to expect after surgery:
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your forearm injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
There will be a dressing over the surgical incision on your forearm. You will have a bandage over the arm and a sling. If the fracture was particularly bad, a half cast may be required to keep the elbow and wrist still.
For most fractures, you can move your fingers, wrist and shoulder straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the elbow rest.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your elbow and wrist moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks. You can perform Pendular movements of the shoulder:
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing fixing your forearm fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Nerves may be injured as a result of your injury or the surgery to fix it. Sometimes surgery to remove screws, wires or plate is required in the future. Removal of bone fragments may be required. Arthritis of the elbow or wrist may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Wrist Fractures
Fractures of the wrist are very common. Some fractures can be managed in a cast but most serious fractures of the wrist (distal radius) require surgery.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, our specialists will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation often with physiotherapists or a hand therapist. Some fractures will still need a cast after surgery and other types of fractures can be managed in a brace.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will oversee immobilisation the wrist and often advise treatment with a specialist wrist brace or cast. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the wrist and hand, surgery to lock the bone back in place may be the best option. Sometimes bone graft is also required. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
Once fixed, you can begin to move the hand and wrist under the instruction of Dr Stevens and your physiotherapist at around two weeks after the operation. The wound will need to be checked 2 weeks after the operation to make sure that the skin is healing well.
What to expect after surgery:
There will be a dressing over the surgical incision of the front of the wrist. You will have a bandage or half cast (backslap) made of plaster. This helps keep the wrist still while it heals.
You will need to keep the plaster and bandage clean and dry. A sling will be given to you to help hold the wrist elevated and keep you comfortable.
Your wounds will be looked at after 2 weeks. You may be changed to a splint after this. Movement of your wrist will depend on the type of fracture you have. Dr Stevens will discuss this with you.
*If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your wrist injury, you will stay in hospital overnight following your surgery and will be discharged the next day with pain relief to take for two to three of days as you need.
*You will have a dressing on your surgery site and a cast which needs to stay clean and dry for 14 days.
* You can move you fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the wrist rest.
*After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
* You may be switched to a wrist splint at 2 weeks.
*Physiotherapy can be helpful to get your wrist and hand moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
As with all surgery, there are risks repairing fixing your wrist. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future. Arthritis of the wrist may occur as a result of this injury.
Wrist Fractures
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and can be discharged the following day with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next to take for two to three of days as you need.
Looking after the Backslab: There will be a dressing over the surgical incision on the front of the wrist. You will have a bandage or half cast (backslab) made of plaster. This helps to keep the wrist still while it heals.
You will need to keep the plaster and bandage clean and dry. A sling will be given to you to help hold the wrist elevated and keep you comfortable.
Do not get the backslab wet. If showering, use a bag to keep it dry.
Movement after surgery: You can move you fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the wrist rest.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle walking and exercise is helpful.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the wrist elevated on a pillow.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Looking after your splint: At the two week review, Dr Stevens may be switch the plaster to a wrist splint.
This wrist splint can be used for fractures which are stable after surgery
Dr Stevens will advise you on how long the splint will need to stay on for.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy or hand therapy can be helpful to get your wrist and hand moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your wrist. These include infection, delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes surgery to remove screws or the plate is required in the future. Arthritis of the wrist may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Looking after your Wrist following Surgery: Closed Reduction and Plaster
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in recovery until your hand feels comfortable. You can be discharged home later the same day if swelling is not a problem.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of movement required to put the bones in place will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the few days as you need.
Looking after the cast: The cast is moulded to keep the bones in place. The wrist normally points slightly up or down depending on the type of fracture you have had.
You will need to keep the plaster and bandage clean and dry. A sling will be given to help hold the wrist elevated and keep you comfortable.
Do not get the plaster wet. If showering, use a bag to keep it dry.
Movement after surgery: You can move your fingers and elbow straight away, but wear the sling provided for most of the day. The sling helps to take the weight of your arm to let the wrist rest.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle walking and exercise is helpful
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the wrist elevated on a pillow.
Review: Xrays are normally required at weeks one and two following the cast application. The cast is normally removed after 6 weeks for adults and sometimes sooner for children. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy. A splint may be required after the cast.
Looking after your splint: At the six-week review, Dr Stevens may be switch the plaster to a wrist splint.
Dr Stevens will advise you on how long the splint will need to stay on for.
Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy or hand therapy can be helpful to get your wrist and hand moving and strong again, but do not start this until you have had your appointment with Dr Stevens at 2 weeks.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of fracture you have and the type of work you do. Most fractures will need 2 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your wrist. These delayed healing or no healing of the bone. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also occur. Sometimes further surgery is required if the fracture is unstable. Arthritis of the wrist may occur as a result of this injury.
+ Swelling
+ strong pain or pins and needles
+ damaged plaster
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Fractures Around the Hip: Pubic Ramus Fractures
Fractures around the hip are common. In Melbourne, Specialist hip surgeons will usually treat these fractures with surgery: Hip Fracture Information
Some fractures don’t involve the hip joint but are instead around the pubic bones of the pelvis. These fractures often feel like they are coming from the hip region. Dr Stevens will assess patients who fracture their pubic bones and will help decide on the type of treatment which is best for them. Dr Stevens has published papers on Pelvic Fractures which can be sound here: Fixing Pelvic Fractures
Often medical doctors and physiotherapists will be involved in your care. Getting you back on your feet safely is key goal.
Dr Stevens will review pelvic x-rays to determine the type of pelvic bone fracture patients have and also review how the bone is healing as time goes on.
These fractures normally do not require surgery. Pubic Rami fractures are painful, and most patients will require pain relief medications and a gait aid such as crutches or a 4 wheel walking frame. You may require some rehabilitation following this type of fracture.
You should use a gait aid until you can walk safely. Your team will discuss when you can start to put more weight on your leg. This normally happens after 6 weeks.
X-rays will be arranged in the weeks following the injury to monitor the healing of the fractures.
Hip Fractures
Fractures of the hip are common. Dr Stevens will usually treat these fractures with surgery. Some hips require the fracture to be put back together and held with a nail and screws while others will need full or partial hip replacements. Dr Stevens will assess patients who fracture their hip and will help decide on the surgery which is best for you. Often medical doctors and physiotherapists will be involved in your care. Getting you back on your feet safely is key goal that our team strives for.
Here is an x-ray of a fractured hip. The fracture is usually caused by a fall.
X-ray shows a fractured Hip.
A plate and screws has fixed the hip.
X-Rays show a fractured Hip. A nail and screws has fixed the hip.
This fracture has been treated with an Intramedullary Nail
This fracture has been treated with a hip replacement.
Some fractures involve the cup of the hip – the acetabulum. Dr Stevens has published papers on this type of fracture: Open Acetabular Fracture Case Report, Outcomes of Bilateral Acetabular Fractures.
Wound care:
You will have a scar over the hip from where Dr Stevens has operated. A dressing will cover the scar. Keep this dressing clean and dry until the wound is reviewed in 2 weeks..
If your wound becomes red, swollen or you begin to feel unwell with fevers, this may signal an infection. A medical doctor should look at your surgery site to check for signs of infection. Blood tests may be required.
Rehab:
After hip joint surgery you will be able to walk with the assistance of physiotherapists. Typically you will need something to help you walk soon after surgery. This may be crutches, a walking stick, a frame or four wheeled walker. You should use this gait aid until you can safely walk without it. This make take a few days or even a few weeks.
Xrays will be arranged in the weeks following surgery so the healing can be monitored.
What to expect after surgery:
Typically, you will stay in hospital after your hip injury until surgery is performed. If medical conditions require attention then surgery may be delayed until this has occurred. After surgery, the medical team and physicians will attend to you to help get you mobile as soon as is reasonable. You may stay in hospital for only a few days, however, if you need more time to safely walk then rehabilitation will be arranged.
You will have a dressing on your surgery site which needs to stay clean and dry for 14 days.
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
There are risks with surgery. These include infection, damage to nerve and blood vessel, healing issue with the fracture or wound, dislocation for hip replacements and medical complications or issues related to the anaesthetic. Dr Stevens and his team will consult with you regarding these and help treat any issues which arise.
Fracture Around Hip Replacement: Patient Information
Dr Jarrad Stevens is a fellowship trained hip replacement surgeon in Melbourne who regularly assess patients for hip conditions and can recommend hip surgery when required. Revision hip replacement surgery for complex fractures is a special interest of Dr Stevens.
In 2019, Dr Stevens was awarded the University of Edinburgh University medal for research into revision joint replacement surgery. This type of surgery is complex and often requires significant planning to ensure the best outcome. Dr Stevens has published papers on this type of fracture and you can view them here: Dr Stevens Research Paper
If you have a fracture around a hip replacement it may require revision surgery (surgery to replace parts of the artificial hip) and fixation surgery with plates, screws and cables.
Dr Stevens will look at x-rays and scans of your fractured hip replacement to determine the right surgery for you. Scans are sometimes organised to understand the extent of the fracture.
For a fracture around a hip replacement, surgery is normally required. Dr Stevens will perform surgery to remove the old hip replacement, fix the bone and place in a new longer hip replacement into position. The results of this type of surgery depends on how badly the bone is broken and how fit the patient is.
If you and Dr Stevens decide that surgery is the best option for your fractured hip replacement, Dr Stevens will organise for a review by a specialist physician to make sure surgery will be as safe as possible. Blood test, a heart trace as well as other investigations maybe organised.
Ongoing pain, stiffness, infection, dislocation and dissatisfaction may result from this type of complex revision hip replacement surgery – despite a good technical outcome.
Each person will recover from hip surgery in a different way. Some people will have little symptoms and good movement soon after surgery. Other patients may take longer for the hip to function at its best. This is due to many factors. Age, the type of hip replacement, the reason for the revision hip replacement, general health and other genetic conditions will all play a role.
Revision surgeries are considered more complex and harder to recover from then the first hip replacement.
What to Expect after Surgery:
Once you have had your revision hip replacement, you may be able to begin to move the hip, ankle and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Hospital physiotherapists will aim to safely have you mobilising after your surgery. This is important for your hip and general health.
A dressing will be placed over the hip following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed. Sometimes a drain to collect excess fluid will be placed into your hip at the time of surgery – this is normally removed after 2 days. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots. Special vacuum dressings can help seal the wound as it heals.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital for several days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets. If you need longer to safely walk, rehabilitation can be organised.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Dressing: You will need to keep the dressing clean and dry for two weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your hip will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some pain in the weeks following surgery. You will need crutches or a frame to walk after surgery. It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 6-12 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
A revision hip replacement operation for fractured femur is major surgery. Despite good results there are risks associated with this procedure. Fracture, dislocation, infection and damage to nerve or blood vessels are some of the more significant risks. Dr Stevens will discuss with you the risks of surgery.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Femoral Shaft Fractures
Fractures that involve the femur are relatively uncommon in Australia. They are usually as a result of a twisting sporting injury, significant fall, work or road accident. Sometimes stress fractures can arise in this bone.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Most fractures of the mid-shaft of the femur are recommended to have surgery to stabilise the bone and allow for mobility of patients.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the hip, femoral bone or knee, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within few days of the injury. A traction device in bed may be required to stabilise the fracture prior to surgery.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the hip, ankle and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A soft bandage and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets. If you require rehabilitation, this will be organised for you.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap your knee and leg, otherwise you can discard these bandages. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some knee pain in the weeks following surgery. You will need crutches or a frame to walk after surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review:
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the tibia you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your tibial fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the nail and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Distal Femur Fractures
Fractures that involve the femur and knee joint are uncommon in Australia. They are usually as a result of a twisting injury, significant fall or a work or road accident. Sometimes stress fractures can arise in this bone.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will immobilise the leg and advise treatment with a cast or knee brace. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the knee, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within few days of the injury. A plaster or brace may be required to stabilise the fracture prior to surgery. Occasionally, the bone is so broken that a special type of knee and thigh bone replacement is required. Dr Stevens also performs this procedure known as Distal Femoral Replacement. Dr Stevens has written papers on the outcomes of this type of surgery and you can access these here: Functional outcome of bilateral endoprosthetic replacements of the distal femur for acute trauma
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the hip, ankle and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A soft bandage and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap your knee and leg, otherwise you can discard these bandages. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some knee pain in the weeks following surgery. You will need crutches or a frame to walk after surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review:
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the tibia you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your tibial fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the nail and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Tibial Plateau Fractures
Tibial fractures are relatively uncommon injuries. Some fractures can be managed in a plaster cast but most serious fractures of the tibia require surgery.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists. This type of fracture involves the knee joint. Surgery to get the joint is close to normal as possible is typically required.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will immobilise the leg and advise treatment with a cast or knee splint. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the knee, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within few days of the injury. The leg may be too swollen to operate on and so a brace and leg elevation maybe required for up to one week.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the ankle and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A soft bandage and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
A Hinged knee brace may be fitted to give your knee stability, but also allow the knee to move.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap your knee and leg, otherwise you can discard these bandages. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some knee pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review:
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the tibia you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your tibial fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement, injury to nerve and blood vessels may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the plate and screws is required. Because the fracture involves the knee joint, arthritis may occur in the future as a result of the injury and surgery.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Tibial Shaft Fractures
Tibial fractures are relatively uncommon injuries. Some fractures can be managed in a plaster cast but most serious fractures of the tibia require surgery.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
These pictures demonstrate a normal Tibia, a fractured Tibia and a Tibia fixed with surgery. Dr Stevens has published papers to help surgeons in placing these nail devices into bone:
Technique for Guiding Distal Locking Screws into Intramedullary Nails
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will immobilise the leg and advise treatment with a cast. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the ankle or knee, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within few days of the injury. A plaster maybe required to stabilise the fracture prior to surgery.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the ankle and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A soft bandage and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap your knee and leg, otherwise you can discard these bandages. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some knee pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review:
After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the tibia you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your tibial fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the nail and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Fractures Around the Ankle
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Ankle fractures are relatively common injuries. Some fractures can be managed in a plaster cast but most serious fractures of the ankle require surgery.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will immobilise the leg and advise treatment with a cast. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the ankle, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within few days of the injury. A plaster maybe required to stabilise the fracture prior to surgery. If the ankle is too swollen, elevation and bed rest may be required – sometimes for up to one week.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the hip and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A plaster and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Plaster: You will need to keep the plaster bandage clean and dry. Using a bag in the shower may help you to do this.
Movement after surgery: You can move your knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some ankle pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy. A Cam boot may be fitted at this stage.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the ankle you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your ankle fracture. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery or surgery to removal the plate and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles tendon tears are common injuries. A simple Achilles tendon rupture can treated in a cast which points the foot down. The plaster cast can be changed to a Cam boot (or Moon boot) as time goes on. The torn tendon, which is usually painful, will normally heal well.
If the tear is in the middle of the tendon and the ends have been separated too much or if they have been apart for too long, surgery may be recommended. Dr Stevens will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you.
If surgery is performed, several types of stitches are used to bring the tendon ends together and help it heal.
Once repaired, patients are normally in a cast for two weeks. The wound is checked and then patients may be able to wear a Cam Boot with a wedge which keeps the foot pointing down. Slowly, the wedge is flattened, usual by taking pieces of the wedge out every two weeks. Physiotherapy is typically required to help get the ankle back to full movement and strength.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for another day. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage and plaster clean and dry. This will be removed at your 2 week check-up.
Movement after surgery: You can move your knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some ankle pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. You will be fitted with a Cam Boot.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 2-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your Achilles tendon. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Sometimes, further surgery is required. There is a risk of injury to the tendon again in the future.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Foot Fractures
Foot fractures are common injuries but some can be serious and require surgery. Most fractures will simply be a crack in the bones and will go onto heal with CAM boots or bracing. Some fractures don’t heal and others involve the ligaments which help to keep the alignment and arch of the foot in place.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
A simple crack in the bone, while painful, will normally heal well. Dr Stevens will immobilise the leg and foot and advise treatment with a cast. Follow up x-rays will be required.
If the broken bone has moved too much or if there is instability of the foot or ankle, surgery to lock the bone back in place maybe the best option. This is normally done within two weeks of the injury. A plaster maybe required to stabilise the fracture prior to surgery. If the foot is too swollen, elevation and bed rest may be required – sometimes for up to one week.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the hip and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the exact type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A plaster and crepe will be placed over the leg and foot following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Plaster: You will need to keep the plaster bandage clean and dry. Using a bag in the shower may help you to do this.
Movement after surgery: You can move your knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some ankle and foot pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised. When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy. A Cam boot may be fitted at this stage. An arch support will be required.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the ankle you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 4-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your foot fractures. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Often, further surgery or surgery to removal the plate or screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Lisfranc Injuries
Foot fractures are common injuries but some can be serious and require surgery. Most fractures will simply be a crack in the bones and will go onto heal with CAM boots or bracing. Some fractures don’t heal and others involve the ligaments which help to keep the alignment and arch of the foot in place. Lisfranc injuries of the foot occur after twisting type trauma or falls. They often involve fractures and injured ligaments such that the foot becomes unstable and prone to severe arthritis.
Dr Stevens will assess your injury and organise x-rays and scans if required. If surgery is needed, Dr Stevens will help guide you through the process as a successful outcome will require recovery and rehabilitation sometimes with physiotherapists close to your home location in Melbourne.
Once fixed, you may be able to begin to move the hip and knee under the instruction of Dr Stevens. Placing weight on the leg will depend on the exact type of fracture you have and how it needed to be fixed.
A plaster and crepe will be placed over the leg following surgery. As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings. This is normal. Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery. You may be placed on blood thinning medications such as aspirin to help reduce the risk of clots.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will stay in hospital overnight and potentially for a few days. You will be discharged with pain relief tablets.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next week or so as you need.
Looking after the Plaster: You will need to keep the plaster bandage clean and dry. Using a bag in the shower may help you to do this.
Movement after surgery: You can move your knee and hip straight away after surgery. Your knee will slowly be able to bend in the days that follow your operation. You may experience some ankle and foot pain in the weeks following surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement and walking with your crutches is advised. When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy. A Cam boot may be fitted at this stage. An arch support will be required.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery to the ankle you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need 4-6 weeks off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with fixing your foot fractures. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also be occur. Often, further surgery or surgery to removal the plate and screws is required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Removal of Metal from Ankle Injuries:
After Removing metal from your ankle there will be a surgical incision. Covering this is a dressing, soft bandage and a crepe bandage.
As the tissue and bone heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings depending on where the surgery was performed. This is normal.
Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the leg for the first few days following surgery.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will recover in the Day Procedure Unit. When you are safe to mobilise you will be able to go home.
Pain relief: After surgery it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next few days as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap your leg, otherwise you can discard these bandages. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: You can move your foot, ankle, knee and hip straight away after surgery.
It is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the leg straight and elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need a few days off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with removing metal fixations from the ankle. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also occur. Sometimes, further surgery will be required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020
Looking After your Surgical Wound Following Scar Revision:
After an operation for debridement and scar revision there will be a surgical incision. Covering this is a dressing, soft bandage and a crepe bandage.
As the tissues heal, a small amount of blood may appear on the dressings depending on where the surgery was performed. This is normal.
Sometimes, replacing the bandage is required to reinforce any areas that continue to bleed.
Elevate the limb for the first few days following surgery.
Discharge home: After your surgery you will recover in the Day Procedure Unit. When you are safe to mobilise you will be able to go home.
Pain relief: After surgery, it is normal to have some pain or discomfort. The amount of surgery you have had will influence how much pain you can expect and how long you will need pain relief for. You will be given pain relief tablets to take home with you when you leave the hospital. Take these over the next few days as you need.
Looking after the Bandage: You will need to keep the bandage clean and dry. The Crepe and Soft Bandage can come off when they get loose. You may want to re-wrap the bandage, otherwise you can discard these. Keep the dressings that cover your wounds dry for the first 2 weeks.
Movement after surgery: Dr Stevens will advise you on how much you can move following your surgery..
In general, it is a good idea to keep moving even after your surgery, it helps your blood circulation and stops your body getting too weak. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks, but gentle movement is advised.
When you are resting or sleeping try to keep the limb elevated on some pillows.
Wound review: After 2 weeks you will have an appointment with Dr Stevens to have your wound checked, any stitches will be removed. Dr Stevens will then give you advice on exercises and physiotherapy.
Driving: You cannot drive until you have had your first review appointment with Dr Stevens. He will give you an indication then when you are likely to be able to drive again
Returning to work: This depends on the type of surgery you have had and the type of work you do. Most surgeries will need a few days off work, some will require longer, especially if you have a manual job.
As with all surgery, there are risks with debridement and scar revision. These include infection, delayed healing or wound problems. Difficulty with pain and range of movement may also occur. Sometimes, further surgery will be required.
+ Fever
+ Heavy bleeding or ooze from the wound
+ Increased swelling and redness around the surgery site
+ Pain in the calf muscles or difficulty breathing
If you have any of these problems, please call Dr Stevens or his rooms on 03 5752 5020