How to Tell If a Knee Surgery Incision Is Infected?

Infections from surgical incisions can pose a serious threat to your health. Surgical-site infections not only make the healing process longer and more difficult, but can also cause blood poisoning and even death. These types of infections are rare---occurring in only one to three of every 100 surgeries---but it is important to watch for warning signs during your recovery from knee surgery and tell a doctor immediately about anything that appears unusual.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer

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Instructions

• 1

  Check the incision for redness and swelling. If these symptoms increase or persist, they may be signs of infection. See your doctor as soon as possible.

• 2

  Check the wound for drainage. Small amounts of drainage are normal for the first few days after knee surgery. But if the incision continues to "weep" or ooze for longer than five days after surgery, or if the drainage is cloudy, yellow or foul-smelling, the knee may be infected.

• 3

  Take your temperature. Infection commonly comes with a mild to high fever. If you have a fever, particularly a high one, call your doctor immediately.

• 4

  Consider anything you did that may have caused infection. Things that can lead to infection include leaving the wound uncovered, letting the drainage soak through the bandage and getting the incision wet. Failing to wash your hands before changing the bandage and picking at the incision can also lead to infection.