⚠️ Post-Operative Problems and Precautions

From: Dr. Jeffrey Wilde, MD - Scripps Clinic

Phone: (858) 554-7993

🕐 After-Hours Emergency Contact

If problems arise after-hours/weekends, call the Scripps operator at (858) 554-9100 and request the on-call Orthopedist.

Recovery Guidelines

Returning to Work

The decision to return to work will be based on:

  • The type of work you do
  • Your physical stamina
  • Whether you have other medical conditions

Timeline: Anywhere from 1-3 months following the procedure.

For Jeff's surgery (Sept 12, 2025): Potential return dates between October 12 - December 12, 2025

Recommendation: Avoid making any major changes in your work or retirement plans until your recovery is complete.

Movement Precautions

🚫 Critical Hip Restrictions (3 Months)

No hyperextension or external rotation of the surgical hip for three months post-op

For Jeff: These restrictions apply until December 12, 2025

Traveling/Flying

Traveling for a long period time can increase your risk for developing blood clots.

Travel Restrictions:

  • AVOID domestic flights for 6 weeks (until October 24, 2025)
  • AVOID international flights for 3 months (until December 12, 2025)
  • Long drives are OK if you take frequent breaks (one per hour) to stretch and take steps

Always check with Dr. Wilde regarding travel and when it is safe to do so.

Common Problems & Management

Leg & Ankle Swelling

You may have some swelling in your operated leg that should gradually decrease.

Treatment: Lie down, elevate your legs above the level of your heart, and rest.

Pain

Pain may be a result of over-activity.

Treatment: When you are in pain, sit or lie down, elevate your legs, and rest.

If the pain does not subside, take the pain medication prescribed for you.

Important: Pain is a protective mechanism that helps to prevent over-usage and should not be ignored.

Difficulty Sleeping

Most patients report more pain at night than during the day, resulting in difficulty sleeping.

Treatment: You may try Tylenol PM or Melatonin at bedtime if this occurs.

When to Seek Medical Care

🚨 Call Our Office or Go to Urgent Care If You Experience:

  • Temperature of 101° or higher
  • Drainage from your incision
  • Increasing redness around your incision
  • Increasing pain around the incision, unrelieved by pain medication
  • Excessive calf pain & swelling that does not go away with elevation

Return Appointments

You are scheduled to see Dr. Wilde about 2 weeks after surgery. If you do not have an appointment scheduled, please call the clinic.

For non-orthopedic medical conditions (such as diabetes, heart, and lung conditions), call your primary physician.