Surgical & Post-Operative Care Flashcards

What is the primary goal of post-operative care following total knee arthroplasty?

Answer: Prevent infection and restore knee function

The primary goals of post-operative care following total knee arthroplasty are multifaceted. Preventing infection is critical to avoid serious complications that could compromise the new joint and patient health. Simultaneously, restoring knee function through early mobilization and physical therapy is essential for the patient to regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life.

Which complication is most common after spinal fusion surgery?

Answer: Blood clots

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism (PE), commonly referred to as blood clots, are a significant risk after spinal fusion surgery. Prolonged immobility during and after surgery, along with surgical trauma, increases the risk of venous stasis and hypercoagulability. Prophylactic measures like early ambulation and anticoagulants are often employed to mitigate this common complication.

What is the key purpose of a CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine post-surgery?

Answer: To promote joint flexibility and prevent stiffness

A Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine gently and continuously moves a joint through a prescribed range of motion without active muscle engagement from the patient. This passive movement is crucial for preventing the formation of scar tissue and adhesions, which can lead to joint stiffness and contractures post-surgery. By maintaining joint mobility, it aids in the recovery of full range of motion and promotes healing.

What is the first line of treatment for post-operative swelling following a knee surgery?

Answer: Ice, elevation, and compression

The R.I.C.E. protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the gold standard for managing acute post-operative swelling and inflammation. Ice therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing fluid accumulation and pain. Elevation uses gravity to drain fluid away from the surgical site, and compression helps limit swelling while providing support to the injured area.

When should a patient begin weight-bearing activities after hip replacement surgery?

Answer: 6-8 weeks post-surgery

While some hip replacement protocols allow for earlier weight-bearing, a period of 6-8 weeks post-surgery is often recommended for significant weight-bearing activities. This timeframe allows for initial bone healing and soft tissue recovery around the prosthetic joint, reducing the risk of dislocation or implant loosening. The exact timeline can vary based on the surgical approach and individual patient factors.

Which of the following is a sign of a potential deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after orthopedic surgery?

Answer: Swelling, redness, and pain in the leg

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is characterized by the formation of a blood clot, typically in a deep vein of the leg. The classic signs include unilateral swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness or pain in the affected calf or thigh. These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention as a DVT can lead to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs.

What is the main goal of physical therapy during the post-operative phase after shoulder surgery?

Answer: Restore range of motion, strengthen muscles, and regain function

The primary goal of physical therapy after shoulder surgery is comprehensive rehabilitation. This involves carefully progressing through exercises to restore the full, pain-free range of motion of the shoulder joint. Concurrently, strengthening the surrounding muscles is crucial to stabilize the joint and regain functional use of the arm for daily activities and specific tasks.

What is a common post-surgical complication of knee arthroscopy?

Answer: Joint stiffness

While infection and blood clots are general surgical risks, joint stiffness is a particularly common complication after knee arthroscopy, especially if post-operative rehabilitation is not diligently followed. Even minimally invasive procedures can lead to scar tissue formation and reduced mobility if the joint is not moved through its full range of motion. Early, controlled mobilization is key to preventing this stiffness.

Which of the following is a post-operative care technique used to prevent contractures in the lower extremities after hip surgery?

Answer: Passive range-of-motion exercises and proper positioning

Contractures, which are permanent shortening of muscles or tendons leading to joint deformity, are a significant concern after hip surgery. Passive range-of-motion exercises gently move the hip joint through its available range, preventing stiffness and maintaining tissue length. Proper positioning, such as avoiding prolonged flexion or adduction, also helps prevent the development of contractures by maintaining optimal joint alignment.