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Signs of Post Surgery Infection

Post surgery infection is a common complication, occurring 500,000 times a year. Infections after surgery can lead to serious illness and even death. Recognizing the signs is an important part of reducing the risk of death or serious complications.

  1. Redness

    • Skin redness around the incision is one of the first signs of a post surgical infection. Multiple streaks are a cause for immediate concern and should be reported to your doctor immediately.

    Drainage

    • Many surgical incisions drain clear fluid after surgery, but if the drainage is thick, yellow or green, or foul-smelling, it is a sign of infection.

    Swelling and Warmth

    • Erythema, or swelling, and warmth around the incision indicates the presence of infection.

    Fever

    • A sudden spike in fever is a common sign of post-surgical infection. A low-grade fever after surgery is normal, but a fever over 101 degrees is a cause for concern.

    Time Frame

    • Signs of post surgical infection appear between 24 and 48 hours of surgery.

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